
Meet Hoorain, a lively 7- year-old with Down syndrome and speech challenges. As the youngest of three, her diagnosis introduced new hurdles for her loving family. Before joining Eliya Special School, Hoorain struggled with sitting still, often resisted participation in activities, and occasionally displayed aggressive behaviour. Her family’s daily routine was filled with efforts to encourage her to attend school and navigate her stubbornness.
At Eliya Special School, Hoorain’s life began to change. With tailored speech, occupational, behavioral, and educational therapies, she has made significant strides. Today, Hoorain can sit attentively for up to 10–15 minutes, engaging in activities and interacting with her classmates. Her speech has shown improvement, allowing her to say a few precious words, and she has developed fine motor skills, becoming more independent in grooming tasks like eating and dressing.
Although occasional moments of frustration remain, Hoorain’s transformation has been remarkable. Now a regular student, she enjoys socializing, participating in group activities, and showing her affectionate nature. Her family and Eliya’s dedicated team continue to support her growth, focusing on short-term goals like tying shoelaces, using the washroom independently, and further developing daily life skills. Looking to the future, they dream of Hoorain achieving full independence, self-reliance, and confidence. Each small victory is a celebration of her determination and resilience, inspiring her family and teachers alike as she progresses toward a brighter, more empowered future.