Introduction

This is Meher. She is three years old and lives in Khader, New Delhi, India (near the outskirts of the city). When she was eight or nine months old, the mosquito net over her bed caught on fire. Miraculously, she survived the terrible burns, but the experience left her face and scalp badly scarred and her left hand permanently closed and deformed.
Meher's father is a daily wage laborer. Her family cannot afford to seek additional treatment for her, although they are very concerned about her future prospects in Indian society. Meher is extremely bright, verbal, and social. She has
picked up a little English from spending time around the Women's Centre and interacts confidently with visitors. She is also very naughty and is always up to something!
I first met Meher when I went to the Women's Centre to find out about working with the teachers there to improve English instruction. Since then, I have been working with the teachers there three times a week and Meher always comes to greet me and oversee my English class.
We are hoping to raise enough money to cover the cost of reconstructive plastic surgery on her hand and her face, which would have to include staying in the hospital, multiple operations, medicine, physical therapy, and much more. We would also like to extend the fund to raise money for her education as she is very intelligent and has very limited opportunities in her present situation. Many people are already working hard to fundraise for her, and this blog will provide updates on our progress.