Parents of a nine-year-old mentally challenged girl, Usha, who is unable to ingest and digest solid food, have sought help from the government and non-profit organisations for her upkeep.
Failed attempts
The girl’s father, Ramesh, a waiter in an Old City hotel, said several attempts to admit her to care centres meant for special children had failed. Aided by the District Women and Child Development Agency, he had earlier approached a centre for special children at West Marredpally seeking Usha’s admission.
ADVERTISEMENT
“They declined admission due to lack of space and funds and asked us bring Usha to their day-care facility. But, we live at Uppuguda and a daily trip to Secunderabad is tough for us. We request the government to provide assistance,” Ramesh said.
He pointed out that Usha’s drugs and other expenses came to around Rs. 5,000 a month.
ADVERTISEMENT
“The CM relief fund had released Rs. 30,000. But, the amount was spent quickly towards her medication. We need a steady assistance,” Ramesh requested.
Medical report
Doctors at Niloufer Hospital, Gandhi Hospital and the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) have certified that the girl suffered from disability. Tests by the medical board at Gandhi Hospital indicated that Usha had an IQ of 50. Persons with IQ of less than 70 are considered mentally challenged.