Akash, 16, who is sightless in one eye and partially sighted in other, does colouring at a special school of Chingrari Trust.
Umar Khan, 24, with his parents, shows photos of his younger brother Azhar who died last year. Azhar was suffering from muscular dystrophy, as is Umar. Umar watched his younger brother dying just last year and he knows that it's coming to him in a few short years. Umar’s parents are very caring towards him. They feed him, wash him and help him in the toilet. He needs 24-hour care. That’s what they were doing for both children until last year.
Aaliya, 14, struggling with intellectual disability and muscular dystrophy, with her father in their single-room house; Aaliya’s mother, who was affected by the gas, passed away eight years ago. Now Aaliya is looked after by her father, Asad.
“Why don’t you keep her in a special institution?” Asad is often asked this question about his daughter, Aaliya. His reply is that “no one else takes care of her as I can. She can’t live without me.” Asad has left all his work as he can’t leave Aaliya alone since she needs 24-hour care. He is supported by Chingari Rehabilitation Trust for Aaliya’s medicines and special therapies where he takes her every day.
Suraj Malam, 21, suffers from cerebral palsy. Here, he is seen standing on his own and losing his sister’s grip as she runs off.
Siddhesh, 17, suffers severely from cerebral palsy and is looked after here by his maternal grandmother, at his home. Siddhesh’s mother is also gas affected. He, along with his mother, lives with his maternal grandparents. Their family of four survives on a pension received by his grandfather who is 78 years old. What is the future for Siddhesh who is completely reliant on his family for 24-hour care?
Kartik, 16, at his home. Kartik is unable even to sit in an armchair and, sometimes, he falls off his bed.
