Over the years, Abida has been bringing Zahra to the rehabilitation centre every six months for therapy sessions. Guided by the physiotherapist, she carefully follows the home exercise programme recorded in a small notebook which is a daily routine that has become part of their lives. “Because of the treatment and therapy over the years, Zahra can dress herself, eat on her own, hold a pen and also write. I am so proud of how far she has come since we started coming to the centre,” she said.

Through consistent effort and care, Zahra’s progress has been notable as she achieves small milestones that her mother celebrates. Filled with hope, Abida continues to visit the centre regularly, watching her daughter grow stronger and more independent each day.

Najmuddin Helal, manager of the centre in Kabul, explains that cerebral palsy is a developmental condition that results from damage to the brain before, during or shortly after birth. “This damage can interfere with the brain’s ability to control movement and muscle function, leading to long-term challenges with coordination, muscle tone, posture and balance. In many cases, the risk of cerebral palsy increases when prenatal care is limited, as this can contribute to complications during pregnancy and delivery,” he said.