Life with a disability presents various challenges, from societal obstacles to educational barriers. However, my journey changed when I joined AADI at the age of 7. With supportive teachers and friends,

I found joy in learning.

Despite health setbacks after graduation, I completed my post-graduation with the encouragement of my teachers. Two mentors from AADI played a significant role in my life, helping me navigate challenges and boost my confidence.



Through AADI, I learned to overcome physical barriers and pursued courses like Content Writing, which opened new opportunities for me. My teachers are my lifeline, and I promise to live my life to the fullest in gratitude to them.

I'm Harshit, a Class IX student. Intrigued by AADI, I visited during summer break. Welcomed by Darsana di, I observed sessions with children like Riddhi. Slowly I started understanding few words, then a few sentences and finally I understood that the team and the parents were concerned about Riddhi's, aged three years, feeding habits. Food was brought; Riddhi was put in a half lying and half sitting position.

Slowly while talking to Riddhi with exaggerated facial gestures one of the team members put a small piece of roti into Riddhi's mouth; surprisingly, not on her tongue but near the molars (I learnt a new term that day called 'pocket feeding'). It was fascinating to see how the team member kept talking to Riddhi, making circular movements on her jaw and gently moving her finger from the chin all the way downwards along her throat.

We all waited with abated breath and saw Riddhi swallow slowly. It seemed like magic. Parents were smiling, the team was happy and I was grinning. Fascinated, I shared experiences with family daily. I believe regular interaction with children with special needs fosters empathy and inclusion. Let's spread this message beyond AADI, promoting understanding in our communities.

Integration does not mean trying to be the same as others. A child with disability will grow up as a disabled adult. And needs to feel positive about that, rather than pretending differently. She needs to know when other people from society do discriminate, but that is not her fault.

Organizations like AADI play a crucial role in supporting persons with disabilities, offering hope in societies where they are often neglected. Collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, such as teachers, parents, social workers, and government officials, are essential to empower them effectively.

Legislation such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 is a step towards inclusivity. Business organizations and industrial establishments should also create job opportunities for persons with disabilities based on their capabilities.

I am grateful for AADI's support in my grandson Savvy's development by providing training in life and work skills. Thanks to their personalized attention, he has grown into a confident young man, better integrated into both family and society.

It was a great exposure to go into the village settings out of our four walls. It was there I realised how restricted our thinking is and this strip gave us a tremendous insight into the needs, aspirations desires of what people wanted from life, something very basic, confidence to face the real world, encouragement to lead a happy life, friendship and companionship.

The placement has made me realise my responsibility towards the chosen field and if we all join hands we can make this world a better place to live for each one of us.

I believe I am ready to step into "real" world, a world in which some of us may not be treated equally, may not be given same opportunity and sometimes may be shunned because a few of us are a little. It is time to look at "disability" as "this disability."

Asif, initially shy and introverted due to visual difficulty, found confidence and independence through AADI's support. With assistance for travel, he overcame barriers to attend computer courses, improving both his skills and social interactions. Now 33, Asif's vision has improved with regular follow up with the ophthalmologist, and he's become cheerful and outgoing. He recently completed a basic computer training course and is eager to pursue advanced training.

"I learnt that I was different from other children very early in life. At an age of when most parents are worried about whether their children would adjust to schools, my parents tried hard to simply find a school that would admit me........It was then that a family friend told us about SSNI, a special school for differently abled children like me. My years at SSNI were enjoyable as I got a nurturing environment that helped me develop my skills, and improve my self confidence........"

Mohit Arora, a 30-year-old probationary officer at Punjab and Sind Bank in Delhi, has overcome challenges stemming from Cerebral Palsy to pursue his dreams. Despite facing discouragement during job interviews, Mohit's determination led him to successfully negotiate a transfer to Delhi from Punjab, prioritizing his father's health. Now, working as a probationary officer at the Punjab and Sind Bank, with five years of service at the bank, Mohit is content with his job and actively engages in community activities such as organizing family gatherings and teaching children from nearby slums. Mohit attributes his success to supportive environments and maintains a positive attitude towards life's challenges. He advocates for societal and familial support for children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of equal opportunities for their success.

AADI organized an Inclusive Summer Camp in Sunder Nagri in June 2017, reaching out to children with disabilities and their families. Despite challenges, including accessibility issues, the camp held at Deepak Public School was a success. Children, both with and without disabilities, participated enthusiastically, experiencing activities like art, music, and theatre for the first time. Many who hadn't attended school before felt motivated to start attending after the camp. Parents noted positive changes in their children's behavior and communication, expressing gratitude for the camp's impact.

On my way to and back from college, different people ask me questions without bothering to waiting for my replies. Where are you going? Where do you study? How do you go there? Are you able to read and write? How do you sit in the class? What difficulties do you face? Often people look at persons with disabilities as though we are aliens; which I despise, but have learnt to ignore. And yes, I wish to study a lot and progress in life.

Our children, Arjun and Aiyana, have been part of AADI's adult group for two years now, attending sessions twice a week. AADI has become a second home for them, fostering marked improvements in speech, social skills, and independence. The caring staff enables members to thrive, treating them with respect and dignity. Our children now take on more responsibilities and participate in household activities like cooking and gardening. This support has not only benefited our children but also given us much-needed time for ourselves. We're grateful to AADI for their dedication and support.

WHAT IS LIFE
Do you know what life is?
If you didn’t know I will tell you
What is life?
Life is a challenge,
We have to face all the problems That come in our life.
Life is like a drama.
We have to do our role in it.
If you can't solve your problems Don't become sad.
Remember your God who is always with you.
Like this you can become successful in your life.
This is the way to spend your life happily.