A recent wheelchair donation in Malaysia has opened new possibilities for 10-year-old Saiabbinaya (Abi) from Klang, who has lived with spina bifida since birth.
A condition that affects the spine and spinal cord, Abi’s daily life has always depended on the care and support of her family. That recently changed when Abi received an electric wheelchair through RYTHM Foundation’s Gift of Life (GOL) initiative, allowing her to move independently and participate more fully at home and school.
Abi’s journey hasn’t been easy. After losing her father in 2022, her mother, Sharmila, moved back to her parents’ home in Klang to rebuild the family’s stability. Sharmila now works part-time, earning around RM1,000 a month (approximately USD 239), while caring for Abi and her older sister, Saiveevekkah.
Despite the family’s challenges, Abi continues to thrive. She attends SK Setia Alam, a mainstream primary school, and goes for physiotherapy twice a week. Her grandfather drives her and her sister to school daily, while her mother picks them up in the afternoon — a routine that keeps the family moving forward together.
The Challenge of Mobility and Inclusion
Abi’s daily life is shaped by her physical limitations. She relied on a stroller for transportation, as a standard wheelchair would have been heavy and unwieldy. The stroller required constant assistance, preventing her from moving independently at school or home.
She also experienced discomfort and skin irritation from the stroller, and needed constant support with personal care at school.
The family’s application to the GOL programme for a wheelchair highlighted how the mobility aid would empower Abi to engage more fully in school activities, manage daily tasks like washing hands and eating independently, and reduce the risk of sores from prolonged sitting.
After a thorough review and home visit, our Foundation recommended full sponsorship for the wheelchair. Its durability promises long-term support for Abi’s journey toward independence.
A Renewed Sense of Freedom
With her new wheelchair, Abi can move around her school more freely, join her classmates, and get involved in lessons more easily. She’s learning to handle simple tasks independently at home, building confidence and resilience.
The initiative has improved Abi’s daily life and brought comfort and hope to her family, a reminder that small acts of support can open doors.
“As a mother, all I want is for Abi to have the chance to be independent and feel included at school. This wheelchair means she can move independently and do things for herself. We are deeply grateful to RYTHM Foundation for making this possible,” Sharmila said.
Abi’s journey reflects the Gift of Life initiative — helping people regain independence, dignity, and hope for the future.
“Seeing Abi’s progress reminds us that sometimes, even a small act of support can change a life,” said Santhi Periasamy, Head of RYTHM Foundation. “That’s what Gift of Life strives to do: help people regain confidence and move forward.”
