Resources Library
A Mother’s Love
Asegedech and Beminet’s Story of Hope and Inclusion
When Asegedech Mebre gave birth to her son Beminet, the journey ahead was filled with uncertainty, but never lacking in love. From the very beginning, Beminet battled heart complications. For years, he underwent monthly checkups at Bruck Hospital, until finally, at the age of five, doctors confirmed what had long been suspected: Beminet had Down syndrome and a serious heart condition.
“I was shocked, ” Asegedech recalls. “But I knew it wasn’t a curse from God. It was just a different path. I used to be very active, but now, I live for him. He needs me, and I will always be there. ”
Today, at nine years old, Beminet is a joyful, social, and deeply loved child. “He’s so friendly, ” his mother says. “The whole neighborhood adores him. He has many friends, and our community supports us in so many ways. ”
She also expresses gratitude for the free medical treatment Beminet receives at Black Lion Hospital and the knowledge she’s gained to care for him. But one major challenge remains, school.
“There are no schools designed for children with Down syndrome, ” she says. “When I try to enroll him, some parents complain. They don’t want their children in the same classroom as him. It breaks my heart. Every time I send him, I wonder if he’ll be accepted. ”
Still, Asegedech believes in her son and in the power of inclusion. Her message is clear: “Don’t hide your children. Let them be seen. Send them to school. That’s how they learn to communicate, to build confidence, and to grow. ”
Beminet is not defined by his diagnosis, he is defined by his kindness, his joy, and the dreams he holds. All he needs is a world willing to meet him halfway
Let’s stand together to ensure that children like Beminet are not left behind. With your support, we can create inclusive schools, informed communities, and a future where every child has a chance to shine!
An Unexpected Journey
A Mother’s Unwavering Love: Eldana’s Story
On a quiet day in August 2020, Betelhem Melaku shared her journey, one that began with confusion, fear, and ultimately, deep joy and purpose. Betelhem was first told that her daughter, Eldana Workinch, had a heart condition during a routine checkup when she was just six months old.
What followed was a visit to Black Lion Hospital and a diagnosis that would forever change their lives: Eldana had Down Syndrome. “I was shocked,” Betelhem recalls. “My sister has a son with autism, and I had seen her struggles. I was scared, really scared. But over time, I accepted it. I realized my daughter is not a burden, but a blessing.”
Eldana, now five years old, is full of joy and light. She brings laughter and warmth into every room she enters. “She’s a very kind and happy kid. Everyone loves her,” Betelhem says with a smile. “Raising her in our community has been beautiful. But it hasn’t been without challenges.”
The greatest challenge? Education. While Eldana is eager to learn, there are few, if any, schools equipped to support children with Down Syndrome. There are no assistant teachers trained to understand their unique needs, no dedicated spaces where they can flourish alongside their peers. “It’s heartbreaking,” Betelhem admits. “Not because of who Eldana is, she is perfect, but because the system wasn’t built for her.”
