By Soph Stephens | Digital Manager
Sevenyearold Ishani has lived through more medical visits, surgeries, and hospital corridors than most people experience in a lifetime. Her body carries the impact of three major surgeries, but when you meet her, what stays with you is her smile — steady, open, and full of quiet courage.
Ishani was born into a family that was already navigating financial constraints. Her father works as a peon in a small office, earning a modest monthly income to support a family of five. Her mother stays at home, devoting all her time to caring for Ishani. Soon after birth, Ishani was diagnosed with meningitis, and the family found themselves moving from one hospital to another, trying to understand what lay ahead for their newborn daughter.
When Ishani was still very young, doctors identified a serious spinal condition that required immediate surgery. The cost was far beyond anything the family could afford. With no other option, her father sold the small piece of land the family owned — their only longterm security — to make sure his daughter could receive treatment. The surgery went well, and for a brief period, the family felt a sense of relief.
That relief did not last long. A few years later, Ishani was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, requiring another urgent surgery. Once again, the family borrowed money and found a way, because they had to. After this operation, Ishani survived, but she lost movement in her lower limbs. Watching their child unable to walk was deeply painful for her parents, yet giving up was never an option. A third surgery was attempted in the hope that it would improve her mobility, but Ishani remained unable to walk independently.
When she became schoolaged, her parents enrolled her in a local primary school. Every day, she was carried from home to school and from one classroom to another. It was exhausting for her parents and difficult for Ishani, but she never complained. She held her books close and did her best.
Things began to change when a teacher noticed how much Ishani was struggling and gently suggested that the family connect with our partner, Nishtha. The family arrived unsure but hopeful. Ishani was enrolled in our project, where she began receiving regular physiotherapy, special education support, and counselling — all free of cost.
For the first time, Ishani was in a space designed around her needs. Her parents could finally focus on supporting her emotionally without the constant pressure of finding money for care. Over the next few months, small changes began to appear. Her legs responded more during therapy. Strength returned slowly. While she still cannot walk on her own, every improvement, no matter how small, became a moment of celebration.
Perhaps the biggest change has been in Ishani herself, she found friends. She laughs more. She participates in activities. She speaks with growing confidence. In her own words, she says she feels happier there than anywhere else.
Ishani’s story is not only about illness or treatment. It is about parents who refused to stop believing in their child. It is about a young girl who continues to smile through pain and uncertainty. And it is about how timely, thoughtful support can make life feel possible again.
Ishani may not be walking yet, but she is moving forward — steadily, bravely, and with determination. With continued support, her journey continues, one day at a time.
Thank you.
By Soph Stephens | Digital Manager
By Soph Stephens | Digital Manager
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