Three years ago, Ishara Buddhika was like any other child. Gradually his ability to speak deteriorated and now, at six years of age, he cannot speak a single word and his communication abilities, behavioural patterns an interaction with others have become severely affected. When his speech began to deteriorate, Ishara's parents took him to a doctor who informed them that Ishara has autism, a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder, for which there is currently no cure.

Ishara's father is a labourer by trade and as such is dependant on what work he can find on an ad-hoc basis. Thus, supporting Ishara in his present condition has become extremely difficult. On top of this, Ishara doesn't eat rice, which is the local staple food and instead prefers milk, bread, biscuits and such. One packet of milk is only sufficient for three days. Because Ishara requires constant care and attention his mother cannot attend to her daily chores nor even cook their meals, to the extent that when there is only the two of them at home she needs to take him with her when she goes to the lavatory.

Ishara's parents have erected numerous makeshift fences, which is all they can afford, to prevent Ishara from wandering away from the house. However, he has always managed to dismantle these or somehow manoeuvre his way around the obstacles. Ishara will usually wander into a neighbour's house or down to the river, which runs very close by and from which he has had to be rescued on many occasions.

The difficulties and frustrations that these parents experience on a daily basis is beyond comprehension for many and anyone who sees Ishara and his parents cannot help but empathise with them. Ishara's mother and father would like to take him to a good doctor or specialist with the hope of providing him with suitable therapies. In addition, they cannot afford to construct a wall or fence around their home to protect their son and therefore, any assistance towards this end would be vastly appreciated and will help to relieve at least part of the burden faced by this family.

Constructing a fence

The total that is required for constructing a mesh fence is approximately Rs.40,660/-
At current prices, this will buy:

• 4 rolls of mesh
• 1 land master full of sand
• 3 bags of cement
• 40 concrete pillars
• 1 land master full of concrete stones

Constructing a fence is a priority for the family to ensure the safety of their son. Secondly, assistance with doctor fees and additional expenses (such as Ishara's special food requirements) would be most helpful for the family.

Monthly allowance for nutrition

A monthly allowance of Rs. 3,000 would help us ensure better nutrition for Ishara. The Foundation will take the responsibility of purchasing the necessary items and handing over to the family on a monthly basis, so as to ensure that the money is put to the very use it is intended We appeal to you to kindly consider helping Ishara and his family. Your help would go a long long way in making this little boys life more comfortable, safe and healthy and also help his parents cope better in these very trying and sad circumstances

If you are able to assist Ishara's family, please contact us as soon as possible.