We recently held another “Apalar Birge” meeting, a gathering for mothers of children with disabilities. It is a space where mothers can not only gain new knowledge but also openly talk about their experiences, share their stories, and feel that they are not alone.
This time, Begimai Eje came with her daughter Aybiyke, the 9-year-old sister of Baizhigit, who has a severe disability and stayed at home this time.
After the educational session, we did an exercise called “My Hope.” Each participant had the opportunity to draw her greatest hope, the dream she holds closest to her heart, and then share the meaning behind her drawing.
As Aida Eje and Begimai Eje spoke about their drawings, we noticed how similar they were. Both mothers shared the same dream: that their sons would one day be able to stand on their own feet and walk independently. They also dreamed of having a home of their own, a place where their families could live together in peace and happiness.
Then Aybiyke shared her hope. She drew a picture of Baizhigit and said:
“I dream that Baizhigit can walk and that we can play together.”
At that moment, the room grew very quiet. There was so much love and hope in her simple and sincere words that they deeply touched everyone present. Many people could not hold back their tears.
This meeting once again showed us how strong mothers of children with special needs are. Each mother has her own story, her own experiences, and her own dreams. Sometimes, the most important thing is simply having people who understand you without the need for unnecessary words.
At the end of the meeting, we thanked all the participants for their openness, sincerity, and trust. We left with one shared thought:
Hope becomes stronger when it is shared.
