My first visit to Raphael was in 1992, as a nineteen year old gap year student and the experience was so impactful for me I vowed that one day I would return. Maybe it was the shock of eating Indian food for the first time or perhaps it was simply that Raphael and the people who live and work there quickly became my cherished family. It took me 32 years to fulfil that promise to myself and well, it was certainly worth the wait as I recently re-visited Raphael for their 65th Anniversary in April, with my daughter Holly, herself the age I was when I first arrived.
There is much about Raphael that remains just as I remember it – the mission ‘to relieve suffering,’ – the many familiar faces and buildings, albeit smarter, of course. But most of all the feeling of peace, joy and of being at home, even after all this time. And yet so much has changed too for the better; in particular, the advancement of care and of opportunity for the young people who come through its gates. Whereas in 1992, the future of a person with disabilities was bleak, today through the exceptional education, medical care, vocational training and shift in societal attitudes, many of these delightful young people go on to have fulfilling lives and employment.
The wonderful General Bakshi may no longer be there, but his spirit lives on quite literally though his effervescent daughter and current Chair of the Governing Council, Sunita, whose passion for Raphael and its long term future is clear to see. Led by Priyo Lall, the current CEO, the future of Raphael is bright. She and her dedicated team continue to evolve Raphael to fulfil the needs of the community. From the introduction of specialist school teacher training courses, to early years physiotherapy intervention with the development of a therapeutic centre, Raphael is a jewel in the specialist schools crown in India.
Holly and I arrived at Raphael for our (too short) week-long visit to a fabulously warm welcome. There was a buzz of energy about the place, as it was the week of Founders’ Day, a significant date in the calendar. The paint brushes were out, gardens were being tended and the children were excitedly rehearsing for their performances. Everyone took part, even the residents of Shiv Sadan and long term residents, Chattru and Sudeep. We loved watching the rehearsals, spending time with them all, dancing, playing and chatting and, despite video calls since, miss them hugely.
What is clear to me is that the fondness I have for Raphael has passed to Holly too. There is no question, we will return, and certainly won’t wait so long next time.
Becky, UK 2024