Despite the challenges, Momen is now fully integrated in school

Momen was finally referred to the Child Rehabilitation Centre at JPBC when he was 3 years old. As soon as he arrived, our multidisciplinary team devised for him a unique and comprehensive package of rehabilitation, whilst his mother benefited from the Mother and Family Empowerment Program.

Now, Momen is independent and enrolled in the first class at his local school, though this achievement was not easily gained. Momen’s mother explains: “I was determined for my son to get educated and join other children at school, as I see this as one of his basic rights.”

Enrolling Momen in a school has involved high levels of stress for his family, especially for his mother who admits to feeling depressed and anxious about the reaction from society. His mother adds: “I had huge fears about Momen’s integration to school. I was deeply concerned about whether his teachers and classmates would accept him and understand his needs and different behavior.”

Nevertheless, Momen’s family took the first step and enrolled him at the school. Despite, their fears Momen’s family is now so proud because he is fully integrated into the school. His mother says, “Momen’s academic score may not be excellent, but because of the intensive rehabilitation and complete integration, his personality has really developed and he is now very empowered.”

In this new stage of Momen’s life, he now joins his siblings in cleaning the house and feels more responsible.

Momen’s mother acknowledges that on this path to success, her son will continue to experience many challenges. However, the family is determined to provide him with their total support, as his mother explains, “We faced and are still facing serious challenges related to financial needs, stigma, acceptance and in providing a supportive environment.”

However, Momen’s family has full faith and confidence in him, as his mother reiterates: “We see our son as a smart, talented, and capable child. We encourage the community to see him the same way, because a positive vision for children with disabilities and total acceptance of them, really accelerates children’s progress of development.”