Community Based Rehabilitation
Yousif, a 4-year-old diagnosed with spina bifida, lay curled up in the corner of the living room floor. The doctors had told his family to give up hope—he was disabled and would remain that way for the rest of his life. To make matters worse, some relatives insulted Yousif, calling him degrading names like “idiot” and “stupid.” His family was desperate for help and hope.
Their dream was to see him walk and attend school, but for the first four years of his life, Yousif had only been able to crawl. In alignment with Operation Mercy’s principles, a physical therapist spoke to Yousif about his value and worth. The entire family was moved to tears, as they had never encountered a doctor who treated their son with such dignity and respect.
Over the course of several weeks of therapy, the family’s entire outlook changed. As Yousif progressed through his exercises, he made significant improvements in his range of motion and mobility. He could now pull himself to stand, walk on his knees, and strengthen his legs in preparation for an upcoming surgery. This surgery will correct deformities in his feet caused by a lack of early therapy and education.
To increase his independence and curiosity about different forms of mobility—especially outside the home—we provided Yousif with a wheelchair until his surgery, after which the focus will shift to walking. This new form of mobility gave him a sense of freedom and inspired him to explore new ways of moving around the house, including attempts at walking.
His family now engages in meaningful play with him and offers positive affirmations. They see his progress and are excited about his future. At each visit, they express their gratitude and anticipation, eager to see what further improvements Yousif will make.
Exploring New Ways of Moving
Yousif, a 4-year-old diagnosed with spina bifida, lay curled up in the corner of the living room floor. The doctors had told his family to give up hope—he was disabled and would remain that way for the rest of his life.
How a Mother’s Life Was Changed
On his own, he began to stand up and to hold himself on the wall.
Hope Stored in His Heart
Most of all we sense that Haitham now has hope stored in his heart that he did not have before.
Wheelchair Gives New Hope in Life
The wheelchair has not only contributed to Amir’s improvement physically, but emotionally and psychologically as well.
Trust is Built Through Peer Groups
This group of four men became eager to meet each other and friendship was formed.
Partnerships for Good
He now has a stable home for him and his family and is walking on his “new” foot.
New Found Confidence
During the last couple of weeks, Ahmed’s gait and posture have significantly improved.
Don’t Give Up, There Is Still Hope
After a year of working with her, she is now able to feed herself, shower independently and help with cleaning around the house! When we first started working with her,