Jalal Hawaldar, an independent man

My name is Md. Jalal Hawaldar from Mothbaria, Pirojpur, Barisal and this is my reintegration story.

I was a BA candidate when my accident happened in 2007. We all know about the horrifying Cyclone Sidr which was one of the worst natural disasters in Bangladesh. For some, it might only be a news they feel sympathy for.However, for me, it was the most life changing event - in a negative way of course. As the strong winds blew, the tin roof giving me shelter fell on my back.

By the time I reached CRP, I could not feel the lower part of my body. I was horrified; the fate of my family bothered me all the time as I was the only bread-winner in a family of four. However, during my four months stay at CRP I started to become more optimistic about life. CRP was not only giving me treatment but also giving me hopes of adjusting to society again.

After my treatment, I received training on computer science for three months.Later, with a donation from Corona, CRP helped me initiate a small business. I received grocery items worth 22,600 BDT for my grocery shop. Almost the entire neighborhood have become my customers. Sometimes, I voluntarily talk to them about physical disability and how it should not be a social stigma. I also sat for my BA exam. Upon request, CRP also gave me a new wheelchair.