Difficult Path, Big Heart: Parveen Ahmadi’s Fight Against Polio
Takhar, Afghanistan – In Taloqan, the capital of Takhar province and one of Afghanistan’s small but mountainous cities, the sunrise signals the start of a new day. But for 29-year-old Parveen Ahmadi, a volunteer in the polio vaccination campaign, it marks the beginning of a demanding one.
In the dusty alleys of the Zargari area in Taloqan, silence prevails, but the sound of Parveen knocking on doors breaks it.
Dressed in simple clothing and with a smile on her lips, she goes door to door to ensure no child is left without the polio vaccine.
Stepping onto the Path of Fighting Polio
Parveen, who was born and raised in the same area, leads a simple life. She completed her education at the Girls’ High School in Takhar and joined the polio vaccination campaign less than a year ago. Yet, her dedication and commitment were evident from day one.
“When I heard that children in our country are still at risk of polio, I felt it was my responsibility to do something,” Parveen says with joy. “This work has given me the opportunity to strive for real change.”
Parveen’s work is not easy; she visits over 100 households daily, speaking with families, but her efforts are not always warmly received. Some people don’t even open their doors, while others consider the vaccine harmful.
“We must be patient and proceed with scientific reasoning. I listen to families’ concerns and try to earn their trust through scientific explanations and real-life stories,” she says.
One unforgettable memory she shares is of a day she encountered a family that refused to vaccinate their children due to misconceptions.
Parveen told them stories of children who had been paralyzed because they missed vaccinations and clarified that the vaccine does not contradict religious beliefs. In the end, the family was persuaded.
“Every time I convince a family to vaccinate their children, I feel we are one step closer to eradicating polio,” Parveen says proudly.
Parveen says with hope, “Together, we can create a future free from polio. All it takes is a small step and valuing the health of our children.” © Polio Free Afghanistan/2024/Raqiba Hamidi
Sakina’s Story: A Mother’s Change of Heart
One of Parveen’s notable successes is changing the perspective of a 30-year-old mother named Sakina. Initially, Sakina refused to vaccinate her children.
“My neighbors said the vaccine was dangerous, and I got scared too,” Sakina explained.
However, Parveen addressed Sakina’s concerns with scientific explanations and even brought a doctor to her home to assure her that the vaccine was safe.
“Parveen’s approach was very sincere,” Sakina said. “When the doctor provided information about the vaccine and I heard the facts, I decided to vaccinate my children. Now I am confident they are protected from polio.”
Doctor’s Message: Vaccination is the Only Way to Protect Children from Polio
Mohammad Mirzad, a local doctor in Takhar, plays a vital role in supporting polio vaccination campaigns.
He says, “Vaccines are developed through extensive research and investigations and have been approved by credible international organizations. They have played a significant role in preventing dangerous diseases worldwide.”
He advises families not to believe baseless rumors but to trust health professionals.
“Vaccines are the only way to protect future generations from polio and other similar dangerous diseases,” he adds.
A Polio-Free Future
Parveen Ahmadi has a big dream: “I want to see the day when no child suffers from polio anymore. This hope motivates me to keep moving forward every day.”
In Takhar, a social activist named Rahela Hussaini speaks about Parveen: “Parveen has built strong relationships with families and has earned their trust. She is a tireless advocate for protecting our children from polio.”
Final Message
Parveen says with hope, “Together, we can create a future free from polio. All it takes is a small step and valuing the health of our children.”
Raqiba Hamidi, Polio-Free Afghanistan
