By Debbie Cohen | Communications Manager
Neesa never imagined it was possible to enjoy going to school.
Now in grade 6, she had long associated school as a hurtful place where classmates picked on her. Simply making the trek there was such a physical ordeal that she often stayed home with her single mother, hidden away.
From the time Neesa was a baby struggling to crawl, it was clear she was different from other children — including her four siblings. Her worried mom suspected there was something seriously medically wrong with her daughter but seeking treatment when she could barely afford to keep her family fed wasn’t a realistic option.
Fortunately, Neesa’s story did not end like it does for so many children born with disabilities in resource-poor countries, who are left untreated and ostracized by their communities. Thanks to the kindness of a local health worker, Neesa was referred to the Hospital and Rehabilitation Center for Disabled Children (HRDC).
Neesa was nervous yet filled with hope as she and her mother traveled from their remote village to the main HRDC campus near Kathmandu, where she was diagnosed with two conditions: Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (which causes multiple joint contractures) and bilateral clubfoot. At no cost to her family, Neesa was admitted to the hospital, underwent successful surgical intervention, and began attending the on-site HRDC School as she healed.
Launched in 2014, the school helps prevent learning gaps caused by lengthy hospital stays. The curriculum is tailored for each student, as children of all ages and levels are taught there. For some, this is their first time regularly attending school.
Neesa’s time spent at HRDC was an unexpected turning point. She discovered a love of learning, felt less alone after meeting other children with disabilities, and has newfound plans to work hard in school and eventually become a social worker.
Now healed and back in her regular school, she can walk better and participate more fully. Her classmates have even begun including her in social activities. “What happened to me is nothing short of a miracle,” she said, beaming with pride. “Everything is possible at HRDC!”
On behalf of Neesa and over 130,000 children who have been treated by our partner, HRDC, thank you for making this life-changing work possible. (All names have been changed for privacy and images are representative.)
To learn more about our work and the HRDC please visit the links below:
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