“Family Fund has been the light during our times of darkness.”

Nabeel is 22 and lives in Sheffield with his mum, Shabana, dad, Ferdos, and his thirteen-year-old brother. Nabeel was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy (MD) when he was two years old, and also has a learning disability. MD is a progressive condition that has gradually caused his muscles to weaken, leading to an increasing level of disability.

Shabana explains, “Soon after Nabeel’s diagnosis, when he was a young child, he was given specialised splints to wear on his legs. However, day to day Nabeel continued to struggle so he eventually started to use a walking frame and then a manual wheelchair. In recent years, Nabeel’s condition has deteriorated further, especially during the COVID-19 lockdowns. He now mostly uses an electronic wheelchair as he can barely walk.

“It’s been a difficult journey for my family because Nabeel is my first child. Our family hasn’t experienced disability before. English isn’t our first language so understanding the system and support services is hard. Despite this, I’m learning everyday how best to support Nabeel with his disability and needs.

“Although Nabeel has a learning disability, he’s intelligent and loves his family and friends. When Nabeel was younger he didn’t like to accept help. He had a bit of a negative outlook on life. However, now that he’s an adult there’s been a lot of changes. Nabeel is far more positive and health conscious. He’s currently looking for anything that can improve his skillset so that he can find a job and earn money.”

Shabana adds, “Caring for Nabeel now that he’s an adult hasn’t got any easier. Supporting Nabeel with his conditions requires 24/7 care. I’m a mother and I have to be strong for him, but it can be stressful and exhausting at times.”

Support through Family Fund’s Your Opportunity grants

Family Fund has supported Nabeel and his family, throughout his life. When Nabeel was four years old Family Fund provided a grant towards some new carpets. The old ones were frayed and uneven, making it difficult for Nabeel’s mobility. Most recently, Family Fund has supported the family by granting a fridge freezer through the Your Opportunity programme which provides grants to young adults between the ages of 18 and 24.

“When I first found out about Family Fund and the Your Opportunity programme, it was a big relief. It felt like we won the lottery. Since we were struggling financially, I felt happy that someone was there for us, to help support the needs of my family.”

Shabana says, “We applied to the Your Opportunity programme because unfortunately our old fridge freezer stopped working and Nabeel has a lot of specific food requirements. We also live far from the city centre so we can’t go shopping every day. Family Fund supported us by granting us a new fridge freezer that comes with a warranty.

“Family Fund has been the light during our times of darkness.”