Creating a Safe and Accessible Home

Written by Shannon Sotomayor , December 1, 2023

Lionida is a proud mother and grandmother to one daughter and three active grandchildren. Together they live in a two-bedroom home in Batey El Soco, a community outside of San Pedro de Macoris in the Dominican Republic.  

On top of being a caregiver, Lionida runs a small convenience store, known as a colmadito, out of the front of the house. Here you can find pop, candy, and treats to add a little sweetness to your day.  

While Lionida puts on a friendly smile for all those who enter her colmadito, she also suffers from severe arthritis in both knees. During a medical home visit, the One World Surgery team noticed her living situation made her condition difficult to manage. The floors were made of dirt and uneven, the doorways had big steps, and the front entrance was rocky and unsafe; all of which limited her ability to navigate her home with her walker. 

To address Lionida’s needs, OWS’s Programs team with the help of Dr. John Solari and three local construction workers, installed three ramps, one at each of her doorways, as well as a level concrete kitchen floor and a nice patio in front of her house. Lionida can now safely walk around her home, cook food for family, and have small gatherings. 

“A million thanks to God and One World Surgery for giving me this great gift.” Lionida will also soon receive a double knee replacement once the One World Surgery Center opens in 2024.