Driver paralysed in road mishap, family uncertain about survival 

LALMOHAN, BHOLA, Oct 24: A truck driver who once supported his family of five through hard work is now bedridden and unable to earn a living after a road accident left much of his body paralysed. 

With the family’s savings and assets nearly exhausted by medical expenses, his wife is struggling to provide for their three children and secure their future.

Mohammad Miraj, son of Mohammad Shafiullah, is from Char Lakkhi in Kalma Union of Lalmohan Upazila in Bhola District. He once worked as a truck driver to support his wife, Rinku Begum, and their two daughters and a son, hoping to raise his children and lift the family out of financial hardship.

But an accident in Naria Upazila of Shariatpur District about two years ago left him seriously injured. Since then, the family has sold almost all its assets, retaining only their homestead, to pay for his treatment. Despite their efforts, Miraj has not recovered enough to return to normal life.

Now without an income, the family struggles to afford even daily meals, let alone the advanced medical care he may need. Rinku is also worried about her eldest daughter’s marriage and the education and future of their younger children.

“My husband used to drive a truck, and his earnings supported our family,” Rinku said. “We have sold everything except our homestead to pay for his treatment, but he has still not fully recovered. His treatment is now stalled because we have no money. He cannot even move around without help.”

She said access to better treatment might help Miraj regain some normalcy and appealed to government and non-government organisations, philanthropists, expatriate Bangladeshis and humanitarian groups to support his treatment and the family.

People wishing to provide financial assistance can contact the family at 01320624613, a personal account number for bKash and Nagad mobile financial services, Rinku said.

Lalmohan Upazila Social Services Officer Mohammad Masud said Miraj was already receiving a disability allowance through the local Social Services office.

“He will be eligible for financial assistance for treatment in accordance with the applicable rules if he submits an application,” Masud said.