Setara has survived family violence, repeated cancer surgeries, and deep emotional trauma. Through the RLL project, she is now finding strength and a path forward.
Setara’s life has been marked by pain from a very young age. Born into a home shaped by abuse, fear, and instability, she grew up surrounded by violence and emotional distress. By the age of 16, the burden of that trauma had already begun to affect her health in devastating ways.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Setara faced not only the shock of a life-threatening illness, but also the harsh reality of limited treatment options. Repeated surgeries, financial hardship, and prolonged emotional suffering became part of her daily life. Yet even through these overwhelming challenges, Setara has continued to move forward.
Today, through HIA’s support and the Restoring Lives through Livelihood project, she is beginning to reclaim a sense of hope, dignity, and belonging.
Setara grew up in a home shaped by violence and fear. Her father was abusive and her family lived under constant stress, leaving a deep emotional impact on her from a young age.
At just 16, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. What she thought would be a simple treatment turned into a long and painful journey, with the cancer returning again and again. Due to financial hardship, she received limited care until her mother took out loans to send her to Pakistan, where she underwent her seventh surgery and lost both of her breasts.
Although her condition is now stable, Setara lives with severe physical limitations and ongoing emotional pain.
Joining the handicraft centre became a turning point. For the first time, she found a safe space, built friendships, and gained new skills. Through counselling and support, she has begun to cope with trauma, rebuild her resilience, and regain a sense of purpose.
Today, Setara is actively engaged in the centre and gradually rebuilding her life. With continued support, she is beginning to imagine a future beyond trauma, one shaped by hope, dignity, and strength.
