Janhit 2013

SR No.: 521151
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Raj Saubhag Ashram
Publisher: Raj Saubhag Ashram
Publication Year: 2013
Total Pages: 34
Language: English
Classification: Magazine, India_Janhit, & India
File Size: 7 MB

Page 24

Ashirwad activities & case study
Ashirwad World-class Sensory Park opened
In December 2011 a Children's Sensory, Mobility and Amusement park was opened at the Ashirwad Centre, Sayla. The park was created with equipment, colours, materials and textures specifically designed for fun, safety, education and development. An experience to stimulate their minds and senses and to enhance functionality of their limbs.
I have never heard of a Sensory Park in a village! In all of India, Sayla is the only village with a Sensory Park. Ashirwad Trust, managed by Raj Saubhag Ashram has truly set an example for all organisations in India. No one could ever imagine that a place as small as Sayla is home to such a well designed, well maintained and well managed organisation. It's a wonder. Full credit for this achievement goes to Param Pujya Bhaishree and his entire team. The organisation has made an inspiring mark on the world map.'
It was thanks to the support and specialist input of members of the Lions Club of Tardev Mumbai that such a contemporary rehabilitation centre was conceived. Their active alliance was instrumental. Their continuing commitment has facilitated four medical and physiotherapy camps in Sayla.
Mr Bhushan Punani,
Exec Director Blind People's Association of India
CASE STUDY: Mahesh Zest for Life
teacher and Principal were called to Sayla for a 2-day training program on inclusive practices. Both Mahesh and his school continue to be supported by the Ashirwad Trust.
Mahesh brims with enthusiasm and is full of zeal to live his life to the fullest. This is his story.
He was selected for the Ashirwad rehabilitation program following a comprehensive assessment of his medical, social, and educational requirements. He was medically reviewed and his seizures were brought under control through medication. A multi-disciplinary team consisting of special educators, a physiotherapist, an opthalmologist and a psychologist developed a comprehensive program for him. His parents were counselled and trained in Sayla
Mahesh was born to a poor family 12 years ago in Vadia Village of Sayla District. Just three months after his birth he suffered from prolonged seizures, resulting in damaged brain function and intellectual impairment.
Mahesh attends the Ashirwad Centre in Sayla regularly. Thanks to the hard work of his team, his teachers and his parents, Mahesh can now talk and participates well in class. He understands basic commands and also utilises his vision meaningfully. He goes to school every day. He has also been helped to get various entitlements from the State including a disability certificate, an identity card, a scholarship from the government, an educational kit from Sarva Shiksha Abhivan and enrolment under the Niramaya scheme.
When project staff first identified him he was still suffering from severe, regular epileptic seizures. Due to his brain impairment he could not speak properly, had difficult with his vision, was unable to walk confidently and was dependant on others for personal care. At home his parents were unaware of state entitlements for his condition, and struggled to provide for him. He was socially undermined. His surrounding community did not understand his impairment and excluded him and laughed at him. He
When he was first identified his father used to carry him as he was not confident to walk independently. Now Mahesh goes to school on his own, walks independently, sits with his 50
classmates in total inclusion and is Mahesh was admitted to the local valued by his family and by society. He village school as Ashirwad believes has been shown love and respect and in promoting social inclusion. He washe smiles, laughs and interacts with the first child with a disability to be confidence. He inspires us with his admitted in the school and both his energy and zest for life.
school.
22 Janhit // 2013
Join hands with us: see pg 32