Disability minimising through Timely Therapy

Dear Benefactor,

Greetings from Margadarshi!

Abhay hails from rural, economically disadvantaged family, in Karnataka, comprising of six members. His father is the sole earning member, engaged in sheep selling with a monthly income of approximately 12,000. Abhay was born on 23.03.2021. Till 3 years, he was normal, after which he began experiencing recurrent epileptic seizures. Due to lack of awareness and delayed medical consultation, he suffered nearly eight epileptic episodes over a short period. These repeated seizures resulted in neurological damage, leading to loss of neck control, difficulty in sitting and standing, muscle stiffness, impaired vision, delayed communication, and dependence on caregivers for daily activities. His condition was very critical and there was no hope of his survival at this time. This resulted in severe emotional distress, financial burden, and loss of hope for the child’s future.

Abhay was identified by Margadarshi, on 02.06.2025. A comprehensive physiotherapy assessment was conducted, and an individualized rehabilitation plan was developed. Abhay received regular physiotherapy focusing on neck and trunk control, muscle strengthening, stretching, balance training, sensory stimulation, range of motion exercises, and early communication skills. His family members received counselling and emotional support, restoring confidence and trust in the rehabilitation process.

After three months of consistent physiotherapy and home-based care, significant improvements were observed: He achieved neck control and independent sitting, reduction in muscle stiffness, ability to stand with support and take a few assisted steps, improved hand grip and ability to hold objects, initiation of simple word sounds and improved communication and increased alertness, confidence, and engagement and he is able to walk now as shown in these videos https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LStr-0fppP4lu80jLNMWNfSCSX50Zafc/view?usp=sharing and

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16-RlykjsmFmZVm4cS9MtdFgvx2b1YD9f/view?usp=sharing

We thank you for your continued support in making a vast difference to Abhay and many Abhay’s

Links:

• YouTube link
• Facebook
• Website

Dear Benefactor,

Greeting from Margadarshi!

An interactive workshop about Disability Management Skills (DMS) and Advanced Therapy Skills

for  children with disabilities and their parents, was organised in the month of July 2025. 34 children and their parents participated in this program.  The DMS program focused on equipping caregivers with practical tools and strategies for effective disability management, fostering independence, and improving quality of life of children with disability.   Complementing this, the Advanced Therapy Skills program offers parents hands-on training in advanced therapeutic techniques to support their child’s development, enhance daily functioning, and maximize their potential. Together, these programs create a comprehensive framework for promoting inclusion, capability, and resilience.

The DMS program focused on equipping caregivers with practical tools and strategies for effective disability management, fostering independence, and improving quality of life of children with disability.  Following training were imparted:

• How to do therapy in a right way
• How to take care of children with cerebral palsy, proper method of seating, feeding and nutritional  food, such as, vegetables, greens and fruits, to be given to these children.
• The children to use the customised assistive devices every day at least for minimum 2-3 hours and also the benefit of making the child stand in the standing frame.
• The method of providing physiotherapy, to follow up therapy at home as well as in therapy centre and they should see the child’s face while doing therapy. Also briefed through video pictures how the parents can do physiotherapy by using locally available materials or the materials available at their home.  Communication techniques to be used while talking to the children was also taught to the parents.

These skills are essential for the holistic development and independence of children with disabilities. The sessions also included targeted exercises to improve motor skills and physical abilities, and techniques for toileting to promote personal hygiene and autonomy. Additionally, the program emphasized daily living activities, equipping parents with tools to help their children manage routine tasks and foster self-reliance.  This comprehensive approach ensured that participants left with valuable knowledge and skills to improve the quality of life and overall well-being of their children.