Bonito’s Success

A young student’s triumph over his disability.

‘In 2011, when I first met Bonito, he was walking. In 2013, his father and uncle carried him into the CP clinic at MCV and he could only stand if supported by a large stick. A neuromuscular disease was consuming his movements. He could not bend anywhere in his body, except for using his hands for writing. His dream was to return to school. The physio from the hospital was standing next to me. We made a plan to make a metal cane with a forearm support, a wooden standing table with a platform for writing and a metal, padded gurney with 2 wheels in front and a leg in the back (for stationary balance) for pushing him to school.

Now, 11 years later, he is in the top 10% of his class of 103 students, friends push him to school along a rocky path full of pot holes and he is ready to start high school next year.

More challenges to come, which he faces with the goal of education. Abilities not disabilities. He is one, amazing resilient, young man. In his world of a large family who relies on fishing for income, living in several mud brick dwellings with dried grasses for roofing and wondering if there will be sufficient food for their evening meal, he wakes up each day, following his dream with a smile and ready for school.’ -Mary, MCV Board Member and Special Needs Program Founder.

Bonito’s ability to travel is dependent on this specially-made ‘padded gurney.’ It was in deperate need or repair this year-see the picture above. Below, Bonito stands at his adapted desk and is able to participate in class with the rest of the students.

Thanks to our generous donors, the Special Needs Program builds and/or repairs ~200 adaptive chairs/equipment yearly! Your gift will have an impact empowering a child in need.

• Some specific costs include:
  • Tricycle Wheelchair: $350
  • Manual Wheelchair: $160
  • Repair of custom device: $50
  • Wooden Stander: $35
  • Walker: $40

To learn more about MCV’s Special Needs Program (and others) or donate, visit our website.

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