Reaching the hospital from five-year-old Elise’s house takes an hour and a half driving along rough, bumpy roads through Rwanda’s hills. The journey is difficult, unsafe and expensive for her family, but Elise has cerebral palsy and requires monthly medical check-ups. 

Today, Elise no longer has to make that long, uncomfortable journey. Because of our incredible supporters she has now has her medication and regular physiotherapy sessions with the Chance for Childhood team in her community.  

Elise’ condition affects her nervous system and her muscles, making movement challenging, and she has also been diagnosed with a learning disability. Her parents found it difficult to care for her, and with deep stigma and discrimination rooted in the community, they used to feel shame at their daughter’s disabilities. 

Elise’s mother, Louisa, told us that she felt alone and rejected by others in the community. With her child totally dependent on her, she struggled to make ends meet for the family and finding the money for her daughter’s medical bills was a constant worry.  

We believe that every child, no matter where they are born, deserves safety, belonging and play.

This is why with your support, we are fighting for girls like Elise to have the best start in life. 

Because of you, our local team was able to step in to transform this family’s situation. Elise started attending rehabilitation sessions run by Chance for Childhood at a local community centre, where her mobility improved so much she can now move around independently and doesn’t rely on her mother to get around. Elise was given a walking aid that helps her play and move freely around the home and in the front yard. 

“After being supported by Chance for Childhood my child is now able to stand and walk using a walking device, the child is attending school and has fun with others, plays, now knows counting numbers in English!” Elise’s mother told us.