The Story of Champa, a Speech-Impaired Woman’s Success
Champa Khatun, a divorcee, was abandoned by her husband due to her speech disability. She is the daughter of Md. Kiam Uddin and Tahura Khatun from Alukdia village in Alukdia Union, Chuadanga Sadar Upazila. Being born mute, her family always saw her as a burden, and even after marriage, she was not accepted in her husband’s house. As a result, she had no choice but to return to her father’s house. Because of her disability, both she and her mother suffered greatly in their family. Champa’s father and brothers never treated her well, and her life continued through numerous hardships.
The story of their suffering reached a field volunteer of the PRPDP project under Prattasha Samazik Unnayan Sangstha (PSUS), through a local member of their village. He visited Champa’s house and spoke to her family, listening to all their struggles. Champa’s mother shared her grief, saying,
“Son, I feel like I have fallen into an endless ocean after giving birth to my daughter. She was not accepted in her husband’s home, and even her father and brothers don’t care for her. That’s why she has to live like this. I don’t know where to go with her or what to do. Sometimes, I feel like running away with her to an unknown place.”
Hearing their distress, the field volunteer discussed the matter with his senior officers. Days passed, and then Manusher Jonno Foundation instructed Prattasha Samazik Unnayan Sangstha (PSUS) to identify names of helpless disabled individuals in their working areas for livelihood support. Champa’s name was selected, and she was given 7,000 BDT as livelihood assistance. Receiving this money brought great happiness to Champa and her family.
With the 7,000 BDT from Protyasha, Champa’s mother bought two female goats and used the remaining money to buy food for them. Her dream is that when the goats grow, she will sell them to build a better future for her disabled daughter. Project officials and PRPDP representatives later visited them to check on their progress.
Champa’s mother said, “With the money from PSUS, I can now raise goats. I currently have two, and soon they will give birth. When I sell them, I will ensure a good future for my disabled daughter.”
She further added, “My daughter was born with a disability, and because of that, my husband and sons caused her a lot of pain. I had to endure so much hardship because of her. Now, my only wish is to secure a bright future for her. I pray for those who helped my daughter, so they may continue to support helpless disabled individuals like her.”
