KARACHI:
According to a private media outlet’s report, a student at the University of Karachi, Ali Hasan, 33 years of age and a mass communication student, is fighting polio to pursue his dream: education.
Ali Hasan is said to have been diagnosed with polio around the age of seven. However, he sits under the shade of a tree with a table in front of him selling pens, highlighters and cell phone accessories. He reads books to keep himself busy also.
Hasan spends most of his time on campus — attending classes or selling stationary. The young man is driven to achieve his goals, one of which is to become an investigative journalist.
“Everyone faces tough times,” said the grad student. “It’s not just about me. Every human being is stressed or facing some troubles in life.”
Recently, Hasan had to undergo an open reduction surgery for his back which is supposed to help with the crippling cause by the poliovirus.
“Hardship and misery are a part of life,” he said. “My class mates and friends are the reason why I have been able to continue with my studies so far.”
He claims to remember the day he had a high fever and went to the doctors for some tests, coming to know of the virus infecting him.
“It is a good thing the government and society are taking this issue seriously and giving it due attention. When I was a child there was no concept of polio drops or vaccination.”
We at Pakistan Today wish Hasan the best of luck for his future, and for inspiring millions around the world: where there is a will, there is a way!