The Wisdom of Children: Stories from Our Kabul Clinic

Meet Sorya, a bright-eyed four-year-old whose smile lights up our Healthy Children Program Clinic outside Kabul.

When her mother Maryam brought her in for a checkup, we witnessed a moment of profound respect. Instead of speaking only to our doctor, Maryam gently encouraged: “Please talk directly to my daughter. She understands.”

And understand she did. As our doctor explained the importance of handwashing, Sorya’s eyes widened with interest, taking in every word about how this simple act protects against illness.

In communities where preventable diseases still claim too many young lives, these moments of connection matter profoundly. When a child learns to wash their hands properly, they gain protection against respiratory and gastrointestinal infections that can be devastating in vulnerable populations.

This is why we’re here—not just to treat, but to empower. One smiling child, one caring mother, one life-saving habit at a time.