Ajay (name changed), a student of Calcutta Rescue no 10 Education Centre, suddenly found himself unable to hear what his teachers were saying. He usually sat in the front, being the diligent student that he is. But even in his usual seat, he had to really crane his neck, pushing his ears forward to hear the teacher understand the lessons.
At first, he thought it was nothing, something temporary and he would be fine in no time. But as the days passed, 14-year-old Ajay found that his problem persisted. He realised with fear that his hearing ability was decreasing. Ajay felt inadequate as insecurity crept up in his mind. The feeling of self-loathing emerged and engulfed him as he understood he was becoming deaf. At a very impressionable age when peer pressure is very important, the pain of loneliness gnawed at his heart.
“I was very scared if people knew that I can’t hear, they would make fun of me,” Ajay said a sad smile adorning his lips, “If people knew-” he said with a sigh, “Who would want to become my friend anymore?” He withdrew himself from speaking. Never answered his mother and elder brother, sitting in a corner of his one-room home.
Ajay’s father died when he was very young. His mother works as a domestic help. His elder brother could not continue his studies and had to start working early to support his mother and little brother. Being a very shy and timid boy, Ajay did not tell his family members about his problems.
Ajay’s mother came to seek help from the teachers. With a nervous voice, she told Ananya Chatterjee, the head of education at Calcutta Rescue that Ajay has gone quieter. He doesn’t talk to his family members and sometimes cries alone.
The doctor told him to wear proper hearing aids. But hearing aids are expensive. Ajay’s mother could not afford it. Calcutta Rescue stepped up to support him with hearing aids. And with the help of our generous supporters, we were able to help him. “I also told his classmates to be empathetic towards him. I am glad that they have been nothing but supportive,” Ananya said.
Now, Ajay is back to his previous life. He studies diligently. His friends are understanding and always ready to help him. He does not feel ashamed of himself anymore.
Ajay’s mother is elated. She has a lot of dreams for her younger son who wants to do higher studies. She said, “I can’t believe if Calcutta Rescue did not stay by my side, what I would have gone with my child. I am relieved now. I am grateful to Calcutta Rescue.”Ajay also turned emotional, “No one has done as much for me and my family as Calcutta Rescue has. I am forever thankful.
Calcutta Rescue goes above and beyond to ensure that underprivileged children not only receive education but also nurture them providing the proper care and guidance they need to overcome adversity and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
