Violet’s Story

Violet lives with her five children and husband in rural Rwanda. Like all mums, she works hard to give her children everything they need to thrive and be happy. But she has always been concerned about her youngest child, Elizabeth who was born with a disability affecting her legs meaning she has been unable to stand and walk independently. Violet worried that Elizabeth wouldn’t be able to go to school or have the same chances as her other children, she felt helpless and didn’t know who to turn to.

A friend told Violet about one of our local Parent Support Groups so she popped along to see how we could help. Within a short time, Violet had made friends with other mums who were in a similar situation, they provided support and comfort. She was also introduced to one of our physiotherapists, Fabrice, who came to visit Violet at home and to meet Elizabeth. Fabrice showed Violet exercises she could do with Elizabeth to strengthen her muscles and referred her to a local hospital for surgery on her legs which was paid for thanks to our partnership with Unicef.

As part of our physio home visits, Fabrice looks to see how homes can be made more accessible for children with disabilities. Like many homes in rural Rwanda, Violet’s didn’t have a conventional toilet, but a pit covered in branches. Violet explained to Fabrice that there was no way Elizabeth could go to the toilet by herself. She couldn’t lower herself and there was a danger she would fall in. We were able to build a toilet with guard rails which means Elizabeth can lower herself down and sit in comfort. She no longer needs Violet to take her and has dignity and independence. Plus, the whole family can benefit from having a clean and safe toilet to use.