Hassan

As a person with cerebral palsy, Hassan had a difficult time in his birthplace of India. He shared how the cultural attitude of Indians made them less than understanding of his disability and could be insensitive with the questions they asked him. Eventually, his family moved to United Arab Emirates, and there was an improvement with how people communicated with Hassan. In 2019, an aunt residing in the United States invited Hassan and his family to visit her. Hassan enjoyed how welcoming people were, and some initiated friendly contact with Hassan with fist bumps. During their trip, Hassan and his family went to Disneyland and he felt incredibly cared for. People opted to help instead of staring at him and he felt “normal.”

Hassan no longer wanted to feel like an outcast. The moment came when his family applied for asylum in the United States and then in 2022, they were awarded it. Leaving everything behind, Hassan and his family began a new life where he feels like he is a part of a community. Hassan feels grateful for his new life because he feels accepted and he has access to things that have improved his livelihood. Through California Children’s Services, Hassan obtained a walker which helps him navigate independently. He also received paratransit services through Alta California Regional Center which furthers his ability to move independently.

After completing his time in high school, Hassan decided to continue his education and has begun his undergraduate requirements at American River College, majoring in computer science. He has always had an interest in computer science because of his uncle’s profession as a computer engineer. Hassan feels like he can express himself in a computer and has found solace in this form of communication since he was in 2^nd grade. After completing two years at American River College, Hassan wants to transfer to University of California, Davis, to complete his bachelor’s degree.

Although he felt limited by the social interactions in India, Hassan is proud to be Indian. He knows that many Information Technology Professionals come from India, and Bangalore is a major technology hub for India. He also connects with his culture through religion as a practicing Muslim. Hassan and his family regularly attend services at their local mosque, where they listen to important lessons on how to be better Muslims through charity, kindness, honesty, and respect.

Hassan wants to continue immersing himself in his community, bettering and educating himself, and has the goal to live independently one day.