Eighteen-year old Akil Khan had dreamt of coming to the bustling city of Karachi for his higher education. While in school, Akil had read about the many adventurous places in the world. Abottabad, a hill station in northern Pakistan where he lived, did not offer the opportunities for learning and growth he aspired to. His parents, modest farmers, were too poor to give him any financial help, but fully supported his decision to continue studying. As Akil's two younger brothers watched him set off for the two day journey to the sprawling metropolis, they also hoped to follow suit one day.

Akil arrived in Karachi determined to make his own way and build a better life. He moved in with his uncle, aunt and their five children. Space was limited but he had a roof over his head and a share of whatever food was available. He enroled himself in a local school, and then set about looking for a job to help pay his fees and keep body and soul together, with a hope to send whatever money he could spare to his family. He finally found work as an instructor in a Karate club, receiving a meagre monthly salary of Rs. 1,500 (US$ 25).

Toiling away at his studies and work, Akil also diligently saved for a trip home. He was a conscientious worker and an inquisitive student, whose eagerness to learn was appreciated by his teachers. Akil also continued to supplement the paltry income of his parents and helped contribute towards his two brothers' school fees. Finally, he wrote to his family saying he would be coming home soon for a visit.

The family reunion was a joyous one. Akil was soon playing with his younger brothers in their fathers' maize fields. During one such occasion, Akil tripped and fell on a sharp piece of glass, which pierced him just below his right elbow. He was rushed to the local clinic where he received basic primary care.

He was then taken to a medical centre nearby for further treatment, but unfortunately some shards of glass remained in the wound. Over the coming days, as movement in his hand progressively diminished, Akil became increasingly despondent at the prospect of not being able to fulfill his dream by continuing to work and support himself.

Fearful for his future and anxious to find a cure for his hand, Akil came to AKUH. He was advised to have exploratory surgery along with a tendon transfer to restore movement back to his hand. When Akil asked his employer for a loan to pay for the surgery, he was guaranteed only part of the required amount. After explaining his situation to the doctor at AKUH, he was advised to contact the welfare officer, who assured him that the Patient Welfare Programme would sustain the remaining cost of the treatment.

The surgery cost Rs. 17,124 (US$ 290), of which Akil paid Rs. 10,000 (US$ 170), and the Patient Welfare Programme provided the balance of Rs. 7,124 (US$ 121). Since his surgery, the mobility of Akil's hand has increased markedly. He continues with his studies and job, and has also started taking computer classes in the evenings. His future is an adventure waiting to happen.