The intervention that gave Severino his independence

We find Severino engaged in a game of ball, his primary pastime. Soccer, at the age of 10, stands as his utmost favorite hobby. Possessing extensive knowledge about major teams, his admiration culminates in Cristiano Ronaldo, his preferred player. Nevertheless, despite his profound connection with the sport, whenever Elsa appears, he promptly abandons all else to rush and embrace her.

Currently enrolled in the fifth grade, Severino resides in the small town of Prrenjas, nestled within a rural neighborhood. Today, he is dedicated to nurturing his passions and embracing every opportunity life presents. Despite the warmth radiating from his sweet smile, suggesting a content existence, not every chapter of his life has been adorned with such abundance of light and hope.

“Born with a physical disability marked by muscular atrophy, Severino's challenges became apparent at a very young age, particularly with his left leg. Swiftly responding to the issue, we placed it in a cast, but initial prospects for an independent life seemed bleak. Walking posed a significant challenge initially, necessitating assistance or a wheelchair, especially on rough terrain. Liljana, recalling those overwhelming moments, admits, "My eyes were full of tears," – says Liljana, as she recounts her little one's arduous journey.

Three years ago, marked the start of a new and promising chapter for Severino and his family. Engaging with World Vision Albania's mobile service, Severino began receiving home physiotherapy on a weekly basis.

"Before the onset of the physiotherapy service, I had to take my son to Tirana intermittently. We had to borrow money due to our financial struggles—no stable job, no income from farming. Since the day Elsa, the physiotherapist, arrived, our family dynamics have undergone a complete transformation," - the mother recounts with a smile, acknowledging that economic challenges persist for her family.

Since June 2022, a new ray of hope has illuminated Severino's life as he became a participant in the "Community Centre for Disability Services" project. Funded by the European Union and executed by World Vision Albania in collaboration with the municipality of Prrenjas, the project is dedicated to assisting 180 children and young individuals with disabilities.

"I enjoy playing soccer, and I also like school. My favorite subject is the Albanian language, and I consistently achieve grades of either 9 or 10. Elsa has been a great support to me. Every week, she visits my home and guides me through various exercises. Previously, I struggled to lift the ball with my left leg, but with the exercises Elsa has helped me with, I can now lift it with both legs and walk independently, even on challenging terrain," Severino shares as he engages in exercises with Elsa.

They share a distinctive way of communication, often expressing themselves through smiles and eye contact. Even during his physiotherapy sessions, Severino delights in playing ball. Over the years of undergoing physiotherapy, he has made significant progress. Elsa, the physiotherapist, highlights his achievements, stating, "He has achieved the ability to maintain balance and walk independently. His muscle mass has increased, and now he can independently perform his exercises at home."

She has also taught some of the exercises to Severino’s mother. She works independently with her son, while Severino’s older brother helps her.

"On the days when Elsa isn't around, we engage in some exercises together. I relocated to the city with the intention of providing my son with more opportunities, ensuring he receives an education, and facilitating easier access to his physiotherapy services," - shares Severino's mother.

A year ago, Severino's family resided in a village in Prrenjas, dwelling in an old and severely deteriorated house. The challenging circumstances, coupled with the imminent collapse of their residence, compelled them to relocate to the city, where they are currently renting a house. Severino's mother secured employment as a dressmaker, while his father is still in search of a job. Despite the transitional phase, this move has proven to be a beneficial change for the 10-year-old.

"Now life in the city is significantly better. I've made new friends with whom I not only study but also play soccer. I hope that in the future, we'll have more open spaces for sports," - expresses Severino.

In addition to the home service, within the project framework, Severino will also have the opportunity to receive specialized services at the premises of the Community Center and at school. The objective of the "Community Center for Disability Services" project is to ensure that every child and young person in the Prrenjas municipality has access to high-quality services, facilitating their development, education, and live life in its fullness.

This 28-month initiative is structured as a comprehensive intervention, with the Community Center team collaborating with the mobile team to deliver consistent services to 180 children and youths with disabilities. These services are offered not only in their homes but also in the schools where they receive education, as well as within the Community Center.

By Alfons Cupaj, PR and Communications Officer, World Vision Albania