Rekha: The importance of having rights and opportunities

Having an universal health system with resources, makes a difference in many more aspects than just health, which is already essential for the development of a life.

In Rekha’s story, her grandmother’s illness with cancer marks a before and after aspects. This young woman, born in November 2004, lived in Dupcheswor (Nepal) with her grandparents, her parents, two elder sisters and three younger ones. Her father was the only one who contributed a salary at home with it they could live very modestly and study. She herself tells us her story:

One day my grandmother got sick, she had cancer. My father took out a loan to cover her treatment, yet she passed away. Not even a week had passed since the pawnbroker was already at home asking my father for the money. Sadness and worry about money were like a tsunami in our home. All the brothers stopped studying for a work and to help at home, but even so it was not enough.

Never before had he felt so helpless and frustrated. But one day I heard about Chhori and the training program that it promotes with Mumbai Smiles to prevent young girls from falling into the hands of human trafficking networks. I contacted and they accepted me to attend a three-month training. We talked about it at home and I accepted the opportunity, since it was something that could have a very positive impact on my future and that of the whole family. The truth is that so far it has been.

I am much more aware of my abilities and have learned and gained experience. And on a personal level, I have also developed skills to express my feelings and my problems and seek solutions. With the sewing machine that they have given me, I can earn a living, and most importantly, share my knowledge and experiences with those around me. And above all, can fight for our rights and opportunities.