The story of Rita: Thriving with disability

Early life and education

Rita, the daughter of a carpenter, was born on August 1, 2002, seven years after her parents’ marriage. Her mother, Mosammat Hazera, a homemaker, nurtured Rita through her early years. During childhood, Rita contracted polio, leaving her legs deformed. Despite this setback, her determination to overcome life’s challenges was evident from a young age.
Rita showed a strong commitment to education. Although community mockery persisted, her father’s unwavering support fortified her resolve. Financial struggles forced the family to live with her maternal grandparents, and later, they relocated to government housing in 2022 due to worsening circumstances.

Overcomming challenges

In 2024, Rita’s father passed away, making her the sole provider for her family. Struggling without land or assets, the family faced dire conditions. Hope emerged when Sangram, in partnership with CDD and the Liliane Foundation, announced a recruitment drive for the “Early Identification and Intervention for Children with Disabilities (EIEI)” project. Rita applied, was selected, and began a transformative journey.
As a community intern, Rita faced numerous challenges. Her physical limitations made long walks painful, uneven terrains hazardous, and stair climbing arduous. Initial skepticism from the community added to her struggles. However, with perseverance and increased awareness, attitudes shifted, and Rita earned their respect.

Commitment to others

Rita found profound purpose in her work, focusing on aiding children with disabilities. She viewed these children not just as beneficiaries but as part of her extended family. Her dedication motivated her to seek ways to improve her own mobility while continuing to serve others.

Steps towards rehabilitation

During her work on the EIEI project, Rita learned about the One Stop Service Centre in Patharghata. Encouraged by her Project Officer and CBR Field Mobilizer, she began regular exercises designed to enhance her mobility. Her commitment yielded gradual improvement.
At a CDD training program, Rita consulted staff about her condition. With their guidance, specialized shoes were made to aid her mobility. On December 2, 2024, Rita received her new shoes. Overcome with emotion, she expressed hope for a brighter future, telling her mother, “These are not tears of sorrow but tears of hope.”

A future full of possibilities

With her new shoes and training, Rita can now walk short distances and continues to work tirelessly for children with disabilities. Grateful to CDD, Sangram, and the Liliane Foundation, she remains optimistic about her journey. She dreams of a day when she will walk effortlessly, saying, “One day, I too will walk like everyone else, Insha Allah.”
Collected and Prepared by Mohammad Rezaul Alam Senior Coordinator, CDD

Photo Credit
Ms. Mahmuda Khanam
CBR Field Worker
EiEi Project
SANGRAM, Patharghata