My name is Neha and here is my story…
I am 13 years old and a student in class 5 at Deaf Reach School, Rashidabad.
I am the eldest of three sisters, one of whom we recently lost. My father and I are the only deaf members, and my parents are both unemployed due to poor health. Our finances are quite tough. Many times, I have thought of quitting school for work. But I love learning at school, and my mother says it’s best for us if I stay and continue.
Being deaf is challenging and lonely. Shopkeepers exploit me and the other kids bully me. My late sister was my best friend – always by my side and would interpret for me. My other sister, however, is too busy and doesn’t take the time or even interest to help me.
My life was quite lonely and discouraging until I discovered Deaf Reach School. Here, I feel safe. I am able to communicate freely and feel a sense of belonging which is quite new. Being at school with my friends is the best part of my day. I get to explore lots of different things and do what I love most – painting.
I’m proud to be the first person in my family to get an education higher than primary grade. I look forward to high school and the Bachelor program at Deaf Reach. I want to be a teacher so that I can impact the lives of deaf children, contribute to my family, and be an inspiration for others. For this, I need to study hard and do my best at school.
Deaf Reach is enabling countless deaf children like Neha to turn their dreams into reality. Play your part in helping Deaf Reach continue to do so: https://deafreach.com/donate/
