Sonia Shanaaz, the mother of 10-year-old Aarna, who was born with cerebral palsy, says the inclusion of people with disabilities is very important because they often feel left out and stressed that some children, like her daughter, only visit hospitals throughout their lives.
She says that some children living with disabilities never leave home until they pass away, and there are many stories where those children don't experience the world like us and as parents and as a society we should provide them the accessibility to life.
Speaking on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan, Shanaaz mentioned that some relatives do not invite them to gatherings, thinking her daughter will not be able to participate.
She stressed that it is still important to include people with disabilities in community events, religious gatherings, and parties, because they also have a life, emotions and feelings.
The 30-year-old says Aarna understands everything, even though she cannot talk, and loves to celebrate.
Shanaaz says she always takes Aarna to a restaurant because they have mini birthday celebrations, and she loves to see people party because she is a very lively person.
Insert: Sonia on faith in God 13th Dec
Shanaaz shared that she fights every day to provide her daughter with the best life.
The mother says it’s not easy because it takes a lot of physical strength to take her around.
She says she began making videos about their journey so that people could understand they are not alone and through these videos, she has received support and has been able to advocate for others.
When asked if it hurts to be left out because she has a child with a disability, Shanaaz said she has accepted it but social media has given her the courage to share her journey.
The 30-year-old says sometimes it gets hard, but her daughter’s smile motivates her every day.
If you would like to assist Shanaaz and Aarna this Christmas, her bank detail is BSP 9429167.
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