Goto main content

HI in Lebanon helps 10-year-old Shahid to walk again

Explosive weapons Health Rehabilitation
Lebanon

Shahid was seriously injured in Syria in 2011 and has been unable to walk since. Humanity & Inclusion is providing her with physiotherapy sessions and splints to get her back on her feet.

Shahid learns to walk with her assistive devices to become independent and confident

Shahid learns to walk with her assistive devices to become independent and confident | © Photo HI

In 2011, when Shahid was only two years old, she was hit by shrapnel in the middle part of her back. She had many surgical interventions to treat her spinal cord injury in Bekaa Hospital, Lebanon. 

At the time, doctors believed that she would not be able to walk again. She learned to crawl to gain some independence but is largely dependent on her aunt for most daily activities. Shahid has never gone to school because of her disability.

Support from Humanity & Inclusion (HI)

HI conducted a physical therapy assessment to fully understand Shahid’s current situation and needs then developed a long-term treatment plan.

This includes the provision and fitting of two leg supports (orthoses), a walker for short distances and a wheelchair for longer distances as well as regular physiotherapy sessions.

One month after beginning the treatment plan and after just eight physical therapy sessions, Shahid started to regain mobility and walk independently with the support of her assistive devices.

Access to education

HI also found an appropriate learning program for Shahid and she has spent the summer catching up on her missed education.

“It feels amazing to be able to move my body and go to school to start my education,”

stated the little girl.

HI will support her to enroll at a public school and achieve her dreams:

“I've always wanted to study and become a doctor”.

Date published: 16/09/20

COUNTRIES

Where we work

Read more

Floods and mudslides in Nepal: HI launches an emergency response to help those affected
© PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP
Emergency Health Rehabilitation

Floods and mudslides in Nepal: HI launches an emergency response to help those affected

On 26 August a flood of ice and mud devastated northern Nepal. HI is preparing a response to the emergency focusing on rehabilitation, mental health support and the distribution of essential supplies.

Elacides, the mine survivor who has become a role model in his community
© C. Maldonado / HI
Explosive weapons Rehabilitation Rights

Elacides, the mine survivor who has become a role model in his community

At 29, Elacides works tirelessly every day to spread a message of hope and inclusion within his community and beyond. The story of a young man who has never given up.

Fighting child malnutrition in Afghanistan
© HI
Health Rehabilitation

Fighting child malnutrition in Afghanistan

Humanity & Inclusion has provided stimulation therapy to over 700 toddlers to combat developmental delays caused by malnutrition.

FOLLOW US