Photo caption: Kennedy with his family after treatment.
My son was almost losing his leg, but he will now be in school, thank you Cheshire.
Kennedy’s mother
More disabled children in Zambia are able to go to school, thanks to the generosity of Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 listeners who helped us to raise a fantastic £9,688 in our Inclusive Education Appeal. Disabled children are amongst the most vulnerable and marginalised groups in society, excluded from an education, and their communities due to the stigmas they face.
Children like Kennedy, are now excited about being able to attend school for the first time. The 13-year-old lives with his mother and supports the family with an income by herding cattle in the local village for a small fee. Kennedy suffers from Chronic Osteomyelitis, a rare condition which causes infection of the bones. His condition was undiagnosed, and when an accident caused him to break both of his legs, the surgery he had on his right leg was not successful, and his calf bone was breaking repeatedly. Unable to afford further treatment, an amputation of Kennedy’s leg looked inevitable.
Our Inclusive Education project in Zambia meant Kennedy could have a full health assessment and access the surgery he needed to save his leg. It was here his underlying condition was identified. Without our support, Kennedy would have had few choices and faced an uncertain future. Now on the mend, and with a school place he has the chance to fulfil his potential and achieve his ambitions.
Our work in Zambia with communities and schools is changing perceptions of disability, removing the huge barriers that many disabled children face.
Donations from the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Appeal mean 17 disabled children have had health assessments so far and gained a school place that otherwise would have been out of reach. Thank you.
Leonard Cheshire works to ensure disabled people can live, learn and work as they choose, with dignity, freedom and respect, whatever their ability, around the world. Our Inclusive Education project in Zambia is helping ensure every child can access their right to an education.
If you want to find out more about the project please visit our .