Sahana’s story is one of resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Growing up, Sahana and her family lived next door to her aunt and uncle’s family and they often spent time together.
One day, her aunt, who was expecting a baby, went to stay at her mother’s house for the delivery—a common practice in India where new mothers seek the support of their extended family. During this time, Sahana’s mother would send coffee, tea, and snacks to her uncle’s house. Unfortunately, her uncle took advantage of this situation and asked Sahana to help him with cooking. Trusting him, she agreed, but his intentions were far from innocent. He exploited her vulnerability and abused her sexually.
Sahana, feeling trapped and scared about how her parents would react, initially kept silent. However, after a few days of turmoil, she found the strength to confide in her parents. They were horrified and immediately took action, sending her uncle away from their neighborhood to protect her.
Just a few months later, another threat emerged when a boy who worked as a helper attempted to abuse her as well. He forcefully took Sahana away for a couple of days, but her parents acted swiftly, filing a complaint with the police. The authorities apprehended him, and he was taken into custody.
After these traumatic experiences, Sahana arrived with us at New Horizons in May 2024. The transition was challenging; she often found herself lost in thought, crying alone. Although she tried to maintain a quiet demeanor, her anger simmered beneath the surface. When frustrated, she would bang doors and throw objects, struggling to cope with her emotions. Many nights were spent awake, while she felt the urge to sleep during the day. To help her stay awake, she would assist the house mothers with their tasks.
With the support of regular counseling and the care of the nurses and house mothers, Sahana gradually began to manage her frustration and anger. As part of her routine, she underwent various medical tests and overcame some health issues, which were addressed with hormone treatments. However, her health faced another setback when she contracted typhoid fever and a urinary tract infection. With proper medication, a nutritious diet, and plenty of fluids, she made a swift recovery. Despite everything, Sahana persevered and completed her 10th grade with commendable marks.
Inspired by her peers, she expressed a desire to continue her education and enrolled in junior college, opting for a multipurpose health worker course. She excelled in her first year, scoring 406 out of 500. During her time in college, she gained hands-on experience through hospital visits, further fueling her passion for healthcare.
Now in her second year of intermediate studies, Sahana reflects on her journey with a sense of disbelief. She never imagined she would attend college and work towards her goals. Coming to New Horizons has truly been a turning point in her life, allowing her to reclaim her dreams and build a brighter future.