Giving the gift of mobility

Crossroads recently received a shipment of wheelchairs and mobility aids from ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc, which we have had the joy of distributing over the last month.  Dauren is a great example of the difference these wheelchairs are making.

Dauren is 6. Since he was 6 months old he has broken various bones 14 times. In 2007 he broke his legs which healed poorly. As a consequence he has been unable to walk since. Doctors have a name for children with this kind of bone condition which translates as the “Crystal Boy”.

Dauren is unable to go school. His parents say he is a really bright kid. Before receiving the wheelchair he had only been able to get around by dragging himself across the floor.  As he was fitted for the chair he was quiet – smiling – but quiet. For a moment as he left our office in his chair, he was alone outside. Then, alone and mobile for the first time, he let out a big bold shout of joy.

The wheelchair distributions continue. We are working with two physiotherapists from the NGO Kamkor Zhurek who are fitting the chairs for the recipients. We are grateful to them and especially grateful to ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc for their partnership in seeing the life changing gift of a wheelchair reach those who need them.