Shiksha Cheekhoory, a 12-year-old student from Mauritius, has taken her Primary School Achievement Certificate (PSAC) exams from her bed, five months after a tragic car accident that claimed the life of her father, Manoj Cheekhoory, and left her with severe injuries. The accident occurred on May 19, when Shiksha and her father were hit by a car while walking home from school. Shiksha spent a month at Jeetoo Hospital, including 11 days in intensive care, and later received additional medical attention at a private clinic.
Shiksha's daily life is now marked by regular medical appointments with a pediatrician, orthopedist, and psychologist. Her body still bears the scars of the accident, including a surgically repaired left hand with a metal rod, a severely injured left foot requiring multiple stitches, and surgical interventions for her spleen and pelvis. Due to her injuries, Shiksha relies on a walker to move around and experiences pain when sitting for extended periods.
Despite her physical challenges, Shiksha was determined to take her PSAC exams, which she considers a way to honor her father's memory. Her father was very supportive of her education and that of her older sister, Bimesha, 17. Since the accident, Shiksha has only been able to receive online lessons and has not been able to attend school or interact with her classmates.
Shiksha's emotional pain is compounded by the loss of her father, whom she learned had passed away just before being discharged from the hospital. She had believed he was still in intensive care. According to Shiksha, her father's death was a "terrible shock" and she blames the driver of the other vehicle for the accident.
The accident has had a significant impact on Shiksha's family, particularly her sister Bimesha and their relatives. The family has rallied around the girls, with their aunts taking turns caring for them and accompanying them to medical appointments. Shiksha's living situation has also changed, with the family converting their living room into a bedroom for the sisters.
Shiksha's aunt, Aartee, 53, expressed her gratitude for the support they have received from the community, particularly from the Senator gaming house, where Shiksha's father worked. The gaming house has been providing transportation for Shiksha's medical appointments and has been a source of comfort for the family.
Shiksha's determination to complete her exams despite her challenges is a testament to her resilience and spirit. Her goal is to continue her education and make her father proud. With the support of her family and community, Shiksha is working to rebuild her life and move forward.
Key points
- Shiksha Cheekhoory, 12, takes PSAC exams from bed after tragic accident kills her father and leaves her with serious injuries.
