A new Graduate Research Assistant's perspective on CDD’s Carers Project in Bangladesh

| 3 September 2024 | 101 views

Hear from incoming PhD student Krishno Sen about his visit to CDD, before he joins the ICACBR's SSHRC Partnership Grant, Balancing Act.

Recently, I had the privilege of visiting the Centre for Disability in Development (CDD), Bangladesh and their Carer Project, an experience that I can only describe as transformative. Having spent 14 years working with persons with disabilities, I thought I had seen and understood much of the landscape. Yet, this visit brought a new perspective that both challenged and deepened my understanding in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the warmth and enthusiasm of the team at CDD. Their commitment to their work was palpable, and it was clear that this wasn’t just a job for them—it was a passion, a calling. The wonderful planning that went into my visit, led by Moinul Bhai, ensured that every moment was meaningful and impactful. I felt truly welcomed and was immediately drawn into the energy and dedication that drives their efforts.

What set this visit apart from my previous experiences was the focus on the carers, particularly mothers, who are the backbone of support for children with disabilities. Over the years, I have met countless mothers of children with disabilities, yet this visit highlighted aspects of their lives that had often been overlooked in my previous encounters. The Carer Project shines a much-needed spotlight on these individuals, whose tireless efforts and sacrifices are too often unseen and unrecognized.

Meeting these mothers and hearing their stories was an emotional experience that left a lasting impression on me. Their resilience in the face of immense challenges—stigma, discrimination, and at times, even abuse—is nothing short of remarkable. These mothers navigate a world that often marginalizes them, yet they continue to provide unwavering care and support for their loved ones. It was a stark reminder of the physical and mental toll that caregiving takes, a burden that is rarely acknowledged.

One of the most powerful moments during my visit was listening to these mothers share their experiences. Their stories were raw, honest, and deeply personal. They spoke of the daily battles they face, not just in caring for their children, but in dealing with a society that often fails to understand or support them. The strength they exhibited, despite the overwhelming challenges, was both humbling and inspiring. It made me realize how much more needs to be done to support these carers, not just in terms of practical assistance, but also in addressing the societal attitudes that contribute to their struggles.

This realization brought to light the long-overlooked dedication and sacrifices of carers, whose struggles are often hidden in the background. While disability inclusion efforts have made significant steps, the experiences of those who care for persons with disabilities have not always been given the attention they deserve. This visit was a stark reminder that the well-being of carers is just as important as the well-being of those they care for.

The Carer Project is a crucial initiative, and think that it was long overdue. Yet, as the saying goes, it’s never too late to begin. I am incredibly thankful to Heather, Ruth, Noman Bhai, and of course, Moinul Bhai and his team, for providing me with this opportunity just as I embark on my new PhD journey with Queens University in Rehabilitation science. This visit has truly shown me a new perspective—one that will guide me to think differently about those who have long been neglected.

The insights I gained during this visit were not just logical but emotional as well. It’s one thing to understand the challenges faced by carers in a theoretical sense, but it’s another entirely to hear their stories firsthand and witness the impact of their sacrifices. This experience has given me a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of both persons with disabilities and their carers.

As I move forward in my PhD studies, I will carry these lessons with me. The Carer Project has shown me the importance of addressing the needs of carers, not just as an afterthought, but as a central component of any disability inclusion efforts. Their stories will serve as a constant reminder of the work that still needs to be done, and the inspiration to continue striving for a more inclusive and supportive society.

In conclusion, my visit to CDD and the Carer Project was more than just an eye-opening experience—it was a call to action. It highlighted the critical need to support carers, to recognize their contributions, and to address the systemic issues that contribute to their struggles. This visit has not only broadened my understanding of disability inclusion but has also reinforced the importance of addressing the needs of those who often remain in the background—carers who dedicate their lives to supporting others.

School of Rehabilitation Therapy