Manana Qoqashvili

The news of Andria’s diagnosis was followed by emotional shock and heavy sorrow. At first I didn’t even believe it, and the period of adjustment was full of sadness and grief, but I told myself: “Manana, come on, don’t give up.” At that moment, I clearly understood that giving up was not an option; I had to do everything so that nothing would be missing on Andria’s path of development.

 

I involved Andria in everything I could. It doesn’t matter how I live. What matters is that he has everything that will help him. From the day the diagnosis was confirmed in Armenia, I started involving him in everything: day center, massages, behavior therapy, and speech therapy. As a result, today Andria can walk, run, and has better control of his body. Feeding problems still remain, and work on behavior continues as well, but with combined effort we will manage that too.

 

What gives me strength and hope is that public awareness is growing day by day. Andria is warmly welcomed everywhere — in the village, in the city, even strangers on the street consider him a gift from God. I am grateful that my child is so loved and cared for. For me, this is equal to boundless support.

 

I want to tell all parents this: do not give up. This path is neither easy nor short, but it is also not impossible. There will be difficult days, but your warmth, patience, and perseverance will become the strength that will lead your children toward development. I sincerely believe that every parent can reach their goal together with their child — what matters is trusting the process and following it with your heart.