For many of us, taking public transport might seem like an easy feat. While we might take this seemingly simple task for granted, it could require more effort for some. Madam Amirtha can identify with this challenge when she travelled on the bus with her son, Hrishikesh, who was fidgeting and struggling to sit still. At a young age, Hrishikesh was diagnosed with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) – a motor skills disorder that involves difficulties in performing age-appropriate self-care and academic tasks.
When Hrishikesh was attending primary school, Madam Amirtha faced much stress while helping him with his handwriting and homework. In school, Hrishikesh also faced challenges interacting with his peers. She never stopped believing and continued to support him together with the psychologist and other professionals from AWWA to help him gain confidence in himself and his abilities. Madam Amirtha expressed her gratefulness that AWWA Community Integration Service (CIS) support does not solely focus on one aspect but they have experts like psychologists and therapists working together to provide “a whole package” of care – from psychosocial to behavioural.
Hrishikesh also has two sisters whom he has grown much closer to over the past few years. Just like other siblings, they have playful fights, joke with each other and talk about their common interests like politics.
Mdm Amirtha’s second daughter would help take care of Hrishikesh whenever Mdm Amirtha is tired and needs a break. As a family, they always have Hrishikesh’s best interest at heart.
Over the years, Hrishikesh has learnt and grown to understand and communicate with his peers better and forging meaningful friendships. The 17-year-old is currently attending pre-university education and has been doing well in school.
A proud mother, Madam Amirtha spoke of how wonderful Hrishikesh is as a son and individual despite the challenges that they face:
“He is very helpful. He is a very nice boy. He is kind. [When he was a child], he will give his toys to [younger children] and let them play. When I get angry about anything, he would just come and give me a big hug.”
Coming across as a sensible young man, Hrishikesh shared that his mother has been a huge pillar of strength, playing a significant role in shaping who he is today. In particular, Hrishikesh mentioned his mother’s unwavering support of his interests. With a growing passion in philosophy, history and politics, Hrishikesh has aspirations to teach and share his knowledge with the world, to be an impactful politician, as well as to conduct academic research and contribute to society. Undefeated by DCD, Hrishikesh continues to dream big and recognises that the support and therapies provided by AWWA CIS and his family’s support have grown his confidence in himself and his abilities:
“I can see myself attaining greater heights and now I feel that my spirit will never falter.”
Through this journey, Mdm Amirtha acknowledged that there is much more about DCD that she has yet to know about. She continues attending informative sessions to better understand the condition and how she can better support Hrishikesh. She also expressed that greater awareness should be raised amongst the general public about DCD. She believes in the benefits of early intervention, encouraging other parents to be open about seeking assistance for their children as early as possible.
The love shared among Hrishikesh’s family members warms our hearts, reminding us about the significant impact of support from loved ones and the community. Their empowering story inspires us to dream big and encourages us to persevere in tough times.