Thirteen-year-old Farah is hemiplegic, meaning one side of her body is paralyzed. She could not walk to school or even hold a pen. For years, Farah missed out on an education because most schools in her hometown of Hama lacked proper facilities and trained teaching staff to help children with physical disabilities. She was teased by other children.
“I used to like spending time alone without talking to anyone. After the sessions, I was able to build better relationships with my family and friends,” she said. Through UNICEF’s programme, Farah received mental health support, cash assistance and case management services. She benefited from the psychosocial support sessions, regained her confidence and became more outgoing.
“We used the money we received for her physiotherapy, check-ups, medicines, clothes and food,” Farah’s mother said.
Farah’s assigned case manager, Bayan, helped her resume her studies. Bayan made sure Farah took the placement test and liaised closely with the Ministry of Education, who successfully persuaded the school to re-enroll her. Through her liaison, the school also agreed to open a “resource room” where children with special learning needs, like Farah, could learn with the support of trained teachers. The case manager provided Farah with stationery, a school bag and clothes to help her integrate into the class. She also helped other children with disabilities from Farah’s village to enrol in the same school. Through the program, Farah was referred to health and specialist social services.
“Before, my daughter was lonely and not accepted by others, but now her life has changed. She has become more proactive in interacting,” Farah’s mother said. “Before, I was nervous and didn’t know how to communicate with her, but with the parenting sessions and support from our case manager Bayan, I have learnt how to interact with her in a more calm way,” she added.
“I am happy at school. There are no distractions here and I have many friends to play with. Noor is my best friend and we have a lot of fun together,” says Farah, who walks to school every day despite all the difficulties. She dreams of one day becoming a physiotherapist and helping children in need.