Empowerment & Inclusion: IDPD 2024

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), held annually on December 3^rd, aims to promote awareness upon the achievements and challenges faced by persons with disabilities, as well as the significance of their social acceptance.

Since the UN General Assembly established this day in 1992, each year has featured a unique theme focusing on how society can work towards inclusivity by removing barriers—physical, technological, and attitudinal—faced by individuals with disabilities.

The IDPD serves as an opportunity to reflect on the significant challenges faced by the estimated 1.3 billion people—about 16% of the world’s population—who experience significant disabilities.

For 2024, the theme is “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” which closely aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It highlights the importance of empowering individuals with disabilities to take the lead in shaping the civilization and contributing to society. After all, Leaders with disability make the world a fairer place for everyone.

Many of pediatric patients experience disabilities as a direct result of their illness and treatment, facing unique challenges that require comprehensive support. Just as the IDPD seeks to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities, MAHAK, in line with SDGs, strives to give a voice to children with cancer, ensuring their needs are met and their rights are recognized.

As of now, MAHAK has provided care for around 645 children with disabilities, which out of those, 371 children have been cured.

For children dealing with cancer, the road can be particularly difficult and many may face long-term side effects including depression, asthma, diabetes, stroke, obesity, and poor oral health. At MAHAK, we work towards a more inclusive and sustainable health care for everyone.