Sonia Shainaaz's story is one of courage, love, and relentless advocacy. As the world marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, her journey with her daughter Aarna shines a light on resilience, inclusion, and the hope for a society that sees ability before disability.
Sonia's ten year-old daughter, Aarna, lives with cerebral palsy, a permanent motor disability.The condition affects her movement, coordination, muscle control and even her oxygen levels, explains Sonia, turning everyday tasks into ongoing challenges.
"When Aarna was born, we didn't know what was happening," Sonia recalls.
"She would cry and sometimes turn blue. Doctors only diagnosed her when she was six-months-old. At first, they said she might just have minor delays, but soon we learned it would be permanent. It was heartbreaking."
'Every parent dreams for their child'
She says raising a child with a disability in Fiji is a test of love and determination. Many public spaces remain inaccessible, specialised equipment is scarce, and medication is expensive or unavailable through public hospitals.
Even basics, like diapers and strollers, don't fit, forcing Sonia to adapt whatever she can find.
"It takes so much courage and mental strength," Sonia says.
"Every parent dreams for their child, but when you hear such a diagnosis, you don't know what the future holds."
Despite the challenges, Sonia has become her daughter's fiercest advocate.
With support from NGOs like the Frank Hilton Organisation, Aarna receives regular physiotherapy, which has improved her muscle development and coordination.
Early interventions, Sonia stresses, are key to preventing further complications and giving children the chance to live more comfortably.
At first, Sonia was hesitant to share their journey publicly.
But when she began posting videos online, she was met with gratitude from other parents and carers who saw their own struggles reflected in her story.
"I realised that if we shy away, nothing changes," she said.
"People need to see our reality. They need to understand these children and learn how to support them."
Sonia wants people to know that children like Aarna experience the world fully.
"They feel love, happiness, sadness, and joy just like any other child. Just because they move differently doesn't mean they don't feel everything."
Sonia's message of hope
Faith and family anchor Sonia's journey.
"If God has given you a child like Aarna, it's not a mistake, it's a gift," she says.
"Involve your whole family, share the responsibility, and support the caregivers. It's not easy, but celebrating small victories makes all the difference."
This International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Sonia hopes her story will shine a light on the importance of inclusion and awareness in Fiji.
She calls on families, schools, and communities to open their doors, offer support, and give children with disabilities the opportunity to live full and meaningful lives.
"Help your child live as normal a life as possible," Sonia says.
"Advocate for them, educate others, and include them in society. These children have so much to give and they deserve to be seen, valued, and understood."