John Britto
Profile compiled by HCI volunteers - Aug. 2005
Sex: Male
Age: 19
Date of Birth: March 9, 1986
Nature of Disability: Bilateral Polio (both lower limbs)
Sponsorship Program: Youth Sponsorship/ Child Adoption
Date Sponsorship Began: September 2004
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
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Basic Education (program previously completed) |
+2, (12th level) |
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Course currently being studied |
Bachelors of Computer Applications (B.CA), C Programming
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Estimated date of completion |
August 2007 |
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Future goals |
Wants to a pursue a masters degree in computer applications (MCA) and become a computer applications engineer
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MEDICAL REPORT:
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Details of Disability (mobility) |
Bilateral Polio |
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Special Requirements (appliances) |
Crutches and calipers |
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Physical Therapy program |
Exercises: Spinal exercises, breathing exercises, Knee/Ankle/Foot orthodics with bilateral auxiliary crutches
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Improvements since last report |
Muscle power, posture and walking pattern have all slightly improved |
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS:
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Strengths |
Exceptional computer skills in programming and a strong student, spoken English
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Areas of Improvement |
More studying
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Hobbies |
Singing along to Tamil songs, playing chess
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John is 20 years old and comes from outside of Ayikudy. His father works for the railway doing bridge maintenance, and he has two older brothers.
John suffered permanent disabilities from childhood polio, which meant that he was unable to walk without assistance. He came to Amar Seva Sangam at the age of four, because his parents could not continue to care for him. He reflects on how much easier it was to stay in a place built to accommodate people with disabilities. While the initial separation from his family was difficult, he visits home regularly and maintains a very strong relationship with them. Here he receives regular physical therapy and medical care, which have helped him move independently despite his permanent disabilities.
John completed his primary education at ASSA, and stayed in the home here while he completed high school. He is now enrolled in the Bachelor of Computer Applications program here at the ASSA and has future plans to apply his computer skills working for the government. His peers described how focused he is in his academic pursuits, and how talented he is even in difficult programming classes. He excels in English as well, which will certainly serve him well in future endeavors.
In his free time John enjoys playing chess, browsing on the computer and spending time with friends. He loves music, and as a practicing Roman Catholic enjoys Christian music. His friends describe him as a kind, considerate and caring person, who makes time to help others out.
John wishes to convey his sincere thanks for the opportunities which sponsorship through Handi-Care International has given him. Because of this support, he has found a place where he has been able to excel in all areas, free from the barriers presented by physical disability.