Stroke Survivor Recovers with Lelt's Assistance

Ten-year-old Kalkidan Dejene has big dreams for her future. A dedicated fifth-grade student in Ethiopia, she aspires to become a doctor. But alongside her ambitions, she faces immense challenges — most notably, her mother’s devastating illness.

Kalkidan’s family joined Lelt’s programs in 2021. After her father’s taxi business failed, he was left with only sporadic income from day labor jobs. Her mother, Genet, worked long hours at a local coffee shop to provide for their children, serving as a pillar of their family. However, last year, everything changed. Frequent headaches and dizziness led to a stroke, leaving Genet unable to speak clearly and with limited mobility on her right side. Now mostly confined to bed, she struggles not only with her physical limitations but also with the deep frustration of losing her independence. The ongoing medical care she needs is far beyond the family’s means.

As Genet’s health declined, so did the family’s stability. Overwhelmed by financial and emotional strain, Kalkidan’s father, Dejene, turned to alcohol. Once a supportive husband, he has become distant and dismissive, refusing to contribute to Genet’s medical expenses. Instead, she has been left to rely on the kindness of relatives and her church.

Despite her suffering, Genet refuses to give up. When Dejene insists she move to the countryside to live with relatives, she stands her ground: “I will not leave. This is our home, and I will stay and fight for our family.”

Through it all, Kalkidan remains by her mother’s side. At just 10 years old, she has taken on responsibilities far beyond her years—bringing Genet her medicine, caring for her, washing dishes, and doing the family’s laundry by hand. Despite everything she does, her greatest sorrow is that she cannot ease her mother’s pain.

The emotional burden is heavy. Once a top student, Kalkidan now struggles to focus in school, her mind consumed by her mothers’ worries. While she still dreams of becoming a doctor, her most immediate wish is simple: for Genet to get better.

With Lelt’s support, Genet’s medical expenses and rehabilitation treatments have been covered, allowing her to make steady progress in regaining mobility. As her mother improves, Kalkidan has felt a sense of relief, finally able to focus more on her studies and her future. Thanks to the generosity of Lelt's donors, this family now has a structured support system to help them navigate Genet's recovery.