Nine years old Saten from Syunik doesn’t differ Armine from a relative and a family friend. It is unclear to her why Armine is called a personal assistant. Her parents’ discussions about the program’s conclusion are not significant to her either. To Saten, Armine is a playmate, a companion during walks, a helper with lessons, and a relative who visits her at home. Saten’s family holds varying attitudes, thoughts, and feelings on this matter.
The “Personal Assistant” program of Viva-MTS and the “SOURCE” Foundation has significantly changed the life of the Yesayan family and eased the concerns of the mother․ Before the program, Shushan, like many mothers, lived with an overstressed rhythm of life: her child with cerebral palsy (CP) required special care. The personal assistant has played a vital role in establishing a more regular rhythm in the family’s life.
Over the two years, during the eight months of personal assistance, remarkable progress has been made: Saten has gained more independence, became more socialized, and is now looking for interactions with others. There is also a huge alteration within the family. Saten’s mother acquired professional skills as a result of her interactions with the senior assistant, started considering personal development, and has plans to launch a flower business in the future.
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“Thanks to the personal assistant, our family’s lifestyle has changed, now each member of the family pursues their own interests. Saten used to be constantly by her grandmother’s side. Armine’s presence has not only provided the child with opportunities for communication and entertainment, but has also given grandma some freedom. Saten now engages with others, even invites strangers on the street for coffee, asking me to prepare the table for guests. During the program, it was a great relief for me to manage my other child, Saten’s twin sister, and to handle various household and other matters. It would be great if the program continued. Armine has almost become a part of the family. Even if the program doesn’t extend, our contact will continue on a purely friendly basis. It is necessary to move forward. Parents like me cannot afford to give up. If we weaken, we will not be able to overcome difficulties and help our children,” shared Shushan Nazaryan, Saten’s mother.
Partner organizations Viva-MTS and the “SOURCE” Foundation value not only the project’s immediate effectiveness, but also its long-term impact, particularly, the child’s steady behavior, future socialization dynamics, willingness to participate in the personal assistant-family circle, and so on. This family meets those criteria. Armine has completed the program-approved visits, but she is also eager to help the family in the future.
For 8 years, Viva-MTS and the “SOURCE” foundation have jointly implemented the “Personal Assistant” program in support of children with disabilities. Professional and experienced personal assistants offer a 60-hour care per month and skill development for 4 months. In the past three years, this program has expanded, covering all regions. In 2023, 40 families became beneficiaries of the program, including more than 20 families from different marzes, four of them – from Syunik.
