Empower Disabled Children & Mothers in Rural India

CASE study

During this period, we carried out home visits to support the ongoing rehabilitation of children with disabilities and to strengthen community engagement. We collaborated with local community leaders to raise awareness about our services and promote the inclusion of children with disabilities in local development initiatives. Additionally, we reached out to families of children with irregular attendance to highlight the importance ase Story

SB, a 4-year-old child with cerebral palsy, lives with his parents in Krishnagar village under Nandigram Block of Purba Medinipur District. According to medical reports, SB did not cry immediately after birth and had a low birth weight of 1.7 kg. The lack of oxygen at birth led to asphyxia, resulting in brain damage and subsequent cerebral palsy. He also suffers from epilepsy and is currently under medical treatment. 

SB comes from a nuclear family with limited financial means. His father works as a daily labourer, earning approximately Rs. 5,000 per month. At the age of two, SB was brought to Asha Bhavan Centre in Panskura. At that time, he had limited motor abilities—he could control his head, roll over, and was learning to crawl. He could make some sounds but was fully dependent on his mother for all daily activities including eating, drinking, toileting, bathing, and washing. His mother, Saraswati, was unsure about his condition and had come seeking medical help.

Following a detailed assessment, the rehabilitation team at Asha Bhavan Centre initiated a comprehensive management plan tailored to SB specific needs. This included therapeutic intervention, training in preschool skills, and regular monitoring and updating of his progress and goals.

Current Progress:

Today, SB has made significant developmental gains:

He can crawl when needed and reach out with both hands.

He is able to maintain a squatting position without support.

With the help of special footwear (A.F.O.), he can stand with support and has begun walking with assistance.

He can now eat solid foods like biscuits and drink water from a glass independently.

He has developed speech and can say a few words such as “Baba,” “Maa,” and “Dada.”

He is toilet trained, able to indicate his needs, and uses the toilet in a squatting position, although he still needs help with washing afterwards.

He continues to be dependent for brushing and face washing, but he enjoys bathing and actively participates by following instructions.

SB can now identify familiar objects and enjoys playing with his peers.

His mother, Saraswati, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once confused and anxious, she is now confident, encouraged by the progress her son has made. She is hopeful that one day SB will be able to walk independently and attend a mainstream school. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Asha Bhavan Centre for their guidance, support, and continuous care in SB's journey toward independence and inclusion.