Women who give birth to a child with a disability often face being abandoned. In an attempt to create a more positive portrayal of disability and to change the way that parents perceive their child’s disability, ODIS seeks to create an enabling environment where parents can learn how they can encourage their child to achieve their full potential.
Doreen* was rejected at birth by her father because of her disability. Her mother had no choice but to leave the family home and entrust Doreen to her elderly grandmother’s care. ODIS worked with Doreen’s family. They were able to convince the father to accept Doreen, so she and her mother have been welcomed back to the family home. Doreen has now joined primary school. She is adapting well and loves spending time with her new classmates.