How rehabilitation helped a child affected by polio return to school
Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
Adil Khan was only five months old when his family learned that he had polio.
He had a high fever for several days. Soon after, his left leg became weak. His father, Shami Ullah, rushed him to hospital. Tests confirmed that Adil had polio.
“We had heard about polio before, so when we learnt our son had it, we were very worried. I just didn’t want to accept that Adil would not be able to walk his entire life,” said Shami Ullah.
Helping Adil Walk Again
Adil received physiotherapy and special support for his legs. With this help, he was able to walk and return to school.
“We are so happy to see our eldest son run. He is just like other children,” his father said.
Adil's family received support through the Polio Rehabilitation Initiative. The programme provides physiotherapy, special supports, surgery when needed and regular follow-up care for children affected by polio.
A Chance to Learn
Rehabilitation can help children move better and become more independent. It can also help them return to school.
The programme also supports some children's education by helping with school costs, uniforms, books and other needs.
Adil is now a second-grade student at Peshawar Cambridge Public School. He enjoys studying, which makes his father proud.
“When he grows up, I would like him to become a doctor so that he can help people in need,” said Shami Ullah.
A Hopeful Future
Adil's story shows how rehabilitation can change the life of a child affected by polio.
Today, he can walk, go to school and look ahead to his future.
For his family, seeing Adil run and study is a source of happiness and hope.
