When taking part is a dream
In a village in Tulcea County, a little girl waits quietly in her wheelchair for her Physical Education class to finish. But she wants to be on the field with the other children
- English
- Română
Ever since her first year, Florentina has been a fighter.
The doctor told her mother she was going to die. Florentina's mother recalls:
‘She was half a baby, her little legs were stuck to her tummy’
Florentina's godmother jumped to the rescue, seeking doctors in Bucharest and so began a long series of operations, all completed when the baby was not even six months old.
The fact that Florentina is alive and going to school is, for her family, a victory won with a lot of courage and silent tears. But also, with the support of people who knew how to lend a helping hand.
The surgeon in Bucharest who operated on her, as soon as he heard about her case and gave her mother hope, telling her she had every chance to live. A lady from Germany, who had a child in her situation, ‘said that children with this problem must live, and she donates the drain to us whenever we need to change it’. The teacher showed the children how to deal with Florentina and protected her until fourth grade. And the social worker from the town hall found the solution for a wheelchair at no cost.
Only the fight is not over. She would like to be able to go on trips with her friends and be with them at all school activities.
Beyond the challenges, Florentina has, above all, dreams and plans for the future, for which she still needs a lot of support.
‘I like school. I like Romanian’
Her mother would like for her to work from home on the computer. But after the pain she experienced as a child, Florentina has her own opinion. ‘Orthopedic or masseur. Orthopedic because I've seen them in hospitals. And masseuse, I just like it. Maybe people have certain aches and pains, and they can get rid of them’.
Now Florentina needs leg orthotics. Her mother knows she can rely on the community social worker for emergency help: ‘Every time we called, they helped us’.
The road hasn't always been smooth. Florentina remembers and cherishes every kind gesture from those around her. Neighbours, teachers, acquaintances. People who choose to be nice to her, not ignore her.
UNICEF in Florentina's life
Today, you can be someone who sees Florentina, or someone who ignores her. And if you choose to see her, you can send her and other children like her the support they need.
You can be together with Florentina and other children in vulnerable situations and the social workers, professionals who discreetly and skillfully provide the bridges and resources that are otherwise missing or too burdensome for any family.
The support provided by social workers is essential to help vulnerable families make a better life for themselves. Go to www.florentina.unicef.ro now and activate a monthly donation. Help Florentina and other vulnerable children access the services they need with the help of social workers. Thank you.
Change the future of Florentina and other vulnerable children
