Esther’s Story

Esther* is an 8-year-old rescued after she was abused by a neighbor. After the matter was reported to the police, her mother began to receive threats from the perpetrator’s family. She could not move from the area due to financial constraints. Due to the stress, Esther’s mother had suicidal thoughts and Esther stopped speaking. She would not talk or express herself to anyone and she began to wet the bed.

Community members intervened and reported the situation to the Children’s Office who then placed Esther at the Safe House. Once away from home, Esther began to open up and play with other girls at the Safe House. Gradually, she recovered and even expressed her wish to go back to school. She is now in grade 3 and is always excited to come back home and report how school was.

Esther’s mother has also had sessions with the therapist and is doing her best to provide and be there for her children. The matter is in court but the judge has not yet reached a ruling.

*name changed to protect privacy and random photo used.