“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence” – Helen Keller
When Mohammad Abdullah was just seven years old, he lost both legs in a terrible train accident, but today this Bangladeshi boy is known for his impressive soccer skills.
Abdullah was raised by his father and stepparent when his mother abandoned him in his time of life. His family would abuse him and that caused Abdullah to flee. After months of begging and living on the streets, he began living with his grandmother.
In 2001, Abdullah slipped from a moving train while trying to reach another car. His legs were caught under the wheels of the speeding train. He was rush to Dhaka Medical faculty Hospital, wherever he was treated and eventually lost each legs below the thigh. No one from his family contacted him and he was left to the hospital's benevolence. After treatment, the hospital authorities sent him to an orphanage. For the next 18 months, he studied at the Barisal Yusuf school and eventually ran away.
I was hopeless and didn't perceive where I belonged. He was afraid of getting caught, so he preferred to live on the street. People always gave me money for my condition. But I wasn't happy and wanted something better for myself, so I decided to work with my strong arms. I became a traveling newspaper vendor and saved a small amount of money that I earned. I saw children playing soccer in the streets, and it rekindled my passion for playing soccer, but they wouldn't let me. Later, Abdullah was sent to Aparajeyo Bangla, an NGO where he learned to get around in a wheelchair, but was determined to make the most of his life.
He started walking without the help of the wheelchair.‘I was determined to be independent and started trying to walk. At first, it was difficult, but I finally made it. Now I can walk, work and play soccer like other people. ".
A soccer coach in Aparajeyo Bangla encouraged Abdullah to practice and pursue his passion for soccer.
Abdullah wishes to compete professionally one day. Abdullah is a conglomerate of courage, hope and innate optimism.
