Story of TWO Brothers...

Samarthanam has many examples where children with disabilities have thrived because of the resources that they received there.  

Two great examples of success stories come from Arun who is 18 years old and his younger brother Manikantan.  These two brothers are students in the Samarthanam School that "specializes in teaching people with developmental disabilities".  This school is located in Bangalore India.

Arun and Manikantan with their Mom

Bobby and Senthil are the parents of Arun and Manikantan who were born with developmental and physical disabilities.  In the winter of 1995 Bobby became pregnant.  There were health issues during Bobby’s pregnancy regarding her nutrition and general health.  In 1995 Arun was born. After he was born he didn't cry.  Doctors then told Bobby that they were suspicious about the health of Arun.  Bobby and Senthil were asked to come back after some time to discuss the health of Arun.  When the couple reached to examine the child the doctors reported that Arun had both physical and cognitive disabilities. 

 In early 1998, Bobby once again became pregnant. She didn't want to repeat the same mistakes from her first pregnancy so she took proper nutrition and had regular check-ups. In October 1998, the couple had another baby boy.  The doctor has stated the child is healthy. Bobby and Senthil then felt confident and excited about the future of their second born son.  Manikantan “Mani” was born a healthy kid.  However, during his 3^rd year Bobby and Senthil found that there were some unexpected health issues with Manikanton too.  Like Arun, Mani couldn’t stand on his own.  This news was very difficult for both Bobby and Senthil to handle. 

Bobby refused to leave her children with disabilities to be seen as less valuable than other children.  Senthil’s friend Murugesan approached Bobby and suggested that Arun and Mani join the kids in Samarthanam.  Bobby decided that Samarthanam would be the best change for herself and her sons.  Bobby reached Bangalore and explained her situation.  In the year 2009, both of Bobby’s children joined the Samarthanam School for children with cognitive and physical disabilities.  Although progress has been slow, Arun and Mani have found great success at Samarthanam.  After being here at the Samarthanam School for four years, both Arun and Mani can function independently. 

Teaching students from various abilities takes time and specific skills.  Arun can now solve puzzles on his own and Mani can write all of the 26 letters of the alphabet as well as count up to twenty. In addition, both Arun and Mani can now grip objects and move on their legs independently.  They are also beginning to verbalize and interact with other kids at the Samarthanam School. 

Bobby praises Samarthanam as if it were a temple to her.  She is now experiencing her kids being independent in their lives.  Bobby says that she owes a great deal to Samarthanam for helping her and her children to live more fulfilled and successful lives.