In the heart of the bustling Chanderpuri Slum, lives a 17-year-old Iqra. Iqra's family of five depended heavily on her father's income, a rickshaw puller who earned Rs 250 a day. Life was tough, but they managed—until the day it all changed.
A month ago, Iqra's father fell seriously ill. The doctor diagnosed him with gallstones, a painful condition that demanded immediate treatment. But it wasn’t just the stones; diabetes had also gripped him, and the doctor strictly forbade any strenuous work. With his health in decline, the family's primary source of income vanished. Iqra's mother, a housewife, tried to hold things together, but the weight of uncertainty bore heavily on all of them.
Iqra knew hardship. Born with a locomotor disability, her movement was restricted. Yet, she never let this define her spirit. She fought through life’s challenges with a quiet determination. But when she was in the 11th grade, a new struggle emerged. Her body, already frail, became weaker, and she grew dangerously thin. The doctors recommended a year of treatment, forcing her to leave school. For a whole year, she stayed at home, her books gathering dust.
But even in those grim days, Iqra refused to give up. When she finally returned to school, she was diagnosed with Nasal bone enlargement during her final exam preparations. The pain was relentless, gnawing at her will. Surgery was inevitable, but the very thought of it filled Iqra with dread. The doctors, along with the Asha family assured her that the surgery would be quick, that the pain would soon be a memory, and that she would be back on her feet in no time. Still, Iqra hesitated, fear clinging to her like a shadow. But as the days passed and the pain intensified, she knew she had no choice.
When she was admitted to the hospital, something remarkable happened. Iqra, despite her fear and pain, brought her books along. She went over her notes, revising with a determination. Three weeks later, with her nose bandaged and her heart full of resolve, she sat for her school leaving exams.
Against all odds, she passed, earning 52% marks. With Asha support she applied for bachelors at Delhi University. The entrance exam center was located at the other end of the city, and it was no small feat to get there. But at 6 am, Iqra and Sugra, a dedicated member of Asha's team, set out from her home, determined to reach on time. The journey was long and tiring, but nothing could dampen Iqra's spirit.
On the 16th of August 2024, Iqra's life took a turn for the better. She received the news that she had been accepted into a regular Bachelor’s program, majoring in History and Political Science at Delhi University. The news spread quickly through her community, and for the first time in a long while, Iqra felt a surge of pure joy.
Iqra is confident that with the continued support from Asha, she will achieve her dreams. Her story is just one among many in the Asha communities—stories of young girls like Iqra who have the potential to change their lives but need a helping hand to do so.
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