Impact Story One

Firdos Jemal's story shows what timely cardiac care can make possible.

Firdos Jemal is a 4-year-old girl with Down syndrome who was diagnosed with congenital heart disease. Through Deborah Foundation’s cardiac screening program she was selected for surgery in India and underwent life-saving treatment.

For Firdos, 'independence' isn't just a word it’s the ability to walk to her first day of school. After surviving a complex heart condition and a cross-continental medical journey, 4-year-old Firdos is officially fully recovered. None of this would be possible without the Deborah Foundation’s commitment to specialized cardiac care. See how one intervention changed a lifetime

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    Active Students

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    Medical Screenings

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    Surgeries Facilitated

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    Families Supported

Therapy stories showing progress in behavior and mobility

Outcomes from behavioral therapy and physiotherapy support.

Beminiet Mekuriya reduced self-injurious behaviors

Through the Deborah Foundation, 6-year-old Beminet replaced self-injurious habits with positive communication and emotional control. Using visual awareness tools, she overcame behavioral challenges to master social interaction and structured focus. Her journey proves that with the right support, every child can unlock their full potential.

Outcome: reduced self-injury, improved communication, increased focus.
Marken Sintayehu gained balance and independence

Through the Deborah Foundation’s physiotherapy and home-based training, this 10-year-old boy transitioned from requiring constant support to walking seven steps unaided. He now navigates stairs using rails, gaining the balance and confidence needed for daily independence. This remarkable progress has brought immense joy and a more active lifestyle to his entire family.

Outcome: enhanced stability, walking progress, increased daily independence.

Inclusive employment and vocational success

Programs supporting individuals into meaningful work.

Employment pathways creating independence

Through the Deborah Foundation, 21 young adults with Down syndrome have transitioned from family dependence to professional employment at leaders like Ethiopian Airlines and Ethio Telecom. By mastering roles in office administration, sales, and hospitality, these trailblazers are proving that with the right vocational training, everyone can be a proud, contributing member of Ethiopia's economy

Selam Asefa

A former Deborah Academy student now working as a gardener at Ethiopian Airlines. She earns her own income and supports her household through vocational training.


Bereket Kassa

Gained valuable skills at the Deborah Vocational Store and now works as an ID distributor at Ethio Telecom, achieving professional growth and independence.

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