Nelly came to Kasisi when she was only three months old, carrying the painful burden of losing her mother, who left behind eleven orphans. When she arrived, she was blind and paralyzed, as if trapped in a body that wouldn’t respond to her commands. Although she had already overcome much, she still had a long road to health ahead of her. Thanks to continuous care and several complex surgeries, two of which took place far from her homeland in Poland, Nelly’s condition began to improve. She gradually regained control over her body. Today, despite a past that could break the toughest of hearts, Nelly walks, sees, and speaks. Along with Sister Mariola, who has become her pillar of support, she watches TV and sometimes they even go shopping in town—a small pleasure that means the world to Nelly. Even in the face of adversity, she maintains a zest for life. While currently free from illness, the future holds some uncertainties for Nelly. In about three years, a valve replacement in her head will likely be necessary, which will probably take her on another journey to Poland.
A school kit includes notebooks, allowing children to study at home. It also includes a pair of shoes, which, if not for Kasisi, they would have to borrow from their siblings. And finally, a delicious, healthy sandwich in the backpack, which gives them the energy they need for their studies. Just like the sandwich their mother would prepare. You can pack one into their backpack today—from right here, from your own home.