Therapy for 30 disabled children in rural Moldova

Mihai is a 4-year-old boy from Calarasi, the youngest of a family with two older sisters.  From an early age, his parents noticed that his development differed from that of other children his age.  He doesn't like loud noises and is easily frightened by sudden changes.  Mihai still does not speak at the moment, he only makes a few sounds and reacts intensely when a forbidden object is taken from him or when a sudden change occurs.  He is a calm character, attentive to details and with a special aptitude for visual and concentration activities.  Quiet activities help him express himself and connect with the world around him.  You may not be surprised to hear with this profile, that Mihai has an autism diagnosis.

Although this diagnosis was initially a blow for Mihai's parents, they have been proactive in getting him the support he needs.  Since the age of 3, Mihai has been attending kindergarten.  He also goes twice a week to our "The Wish" day center in Calarasi. Here he benefits from speech therapy, occupational therapy and educational activities adapted to his needs.  Even with limited access to services, Mihai has made great progress: he is more attentive, manages to accept the rules better and tries to communicate through gestures and looks. Behavioral crises are rarer, and his family has become more confident and involved in supporting him. His sisters gladly participate in home activities and encourage him every step of the way. 

However, we believe that Mihai needs more therapy, with a greater frequency, in order to make faster and more solid progress. Unfortunately, due to financial limitations, we don't have the possibility to include Mihai in the program more often, although the need is obvious.  Even though the road is long, Mihai demonstrates that he has potential, especially if he could benefit from a more intense therapy program. He is a gentle child, who responds to encouragement and fully enjoys every success. Mihai loves to color, do puzzles and explore activities that involve order, colors and shapes. 

Mihai's story is one about potential, hope, and a family's daily struggle for a better life. With the support of the "The Wish" center, even in limited conditions, Mihai is evolving. With expanded access to therapy, he could make even greater progress. This child needs more support to reach his true potential – and he deserves all the support of the community. 

We rely on your donations help to fund Mihai's invaluable therapy programme.  We'd love to be able to offer him more support, and indeed to help more children.  Can you help?