The story of a ten year old boy

Akash, a 10 years old boy, was severely burned with acid on 25th October 2009. He was immediately taken to the local upazila hospital (Kashiani), then to Faridpur Medical College Hospital and from there to Dhaka Medical College, Burn Unit. His face including his forehead, neck, chest and both hands were severely burnt. He received dressing and medication in DMCH Burn Unit on a regular basis for one month. However, his father had to take him home before the treatment was complete due to monetary restrictions. For almost a year, he continued to suffer until he came to the Acid Survivors Foundation on 22nd September 2010.

Akash had severe post burn deformity in eyes, neck and both hands and with unhealed wound in left hand. Here, he received proper treatment, under the careful supervision of a multidisciplinary team of Plastic Surgeons, Eye Specialists, ENT Specialists, Nutritionists and physiotherapists. For his left hand, an Orthopedic Specialist was consulted. He also received reconstructive surgery from Dr Ron Hiles, a renowned surgeon from UK.

When he got admitted to the ASF Hospital, he was anemic and his health in general was in a poor condition. He was also psychologically very down. In the first month, he received proper nursing and nutritional care with emotional support to prepare him for a series of reconstructive surgery. As both his upper and lower eye lids got contracted, his vision was at stake. Plastic surgeons had to first reconstruct upper and lower eyelids of both his eyes to save his vision. When this was successful, they released the contracture of his neck and right axilla. Physiotherapists were involved from the beginning of his treatment and were helping him to maintain the right position and maximizing his functional ability through regular physiotherapy and splinting.

However his left hand was permanently disabled and his left elbow was severely contracted. The dysfunctional hand was causing difficulties to wear clothes. At one point, it was suggested that his dysfunctional left hand be surgically removed. However, Akash and his family was very emotional about this. Considering his psychological state, ASF, with the expertise of Dr Hiles, were able to successfully reconstruct his elbow joint and axilla. He can now move both his hands although his left hand is still not functional.

Akash is receiving post operative nursing care in ASF Hospital. He joins art and music therapy sessions which help him to express and embrace his emotions. When he first came to ASF, he kept to himself. Gradually, he is opening up to ASF’s counselors and social workers. Nonetheless, it is a challenge for ASF to help him to return to his normal life.

Akash’s situation might have been very different if he was brought to such treatment immediately after the

incident. Delay in treatment has complicated his situation. Though the life of this ten year old will never be the same, at least now Akash has started to dream about a better future.

BEFORE 

AFTER

All pictures and information were taken from the ASF website.