Stories From The Field...Meet Venkatesh (aka Ven), a young boy rescued from bonded labour by Odanadi

We first met Ven in 2017 during Back To The Future - a motorbike ride for Adventure Ashram supporters through South India to celebrate 10 years of Adventure Ashram. Ven was living at 'Odula' - the house for boys' in Mysore run by the inspiring Odanadi India who we have been privileged to support since 2007.

Ven was born with one of his feet 'back to front', which meant he could barely walk, let alone run around and play and he was in constant pain. A couple of the riders were medics - they looked at Ven's condition and knew an operation could sort his foot out and immediately agreed to fund the costs. Other supporters then offered to fund his post op physiotherapy and everything fell into place for this brave boy.

Ven had his op earlier this year - it's been a long haul and he has shown remarkable courage and bravery. We are wary of using terms such as 'life changing' but this operation really has been for Ven. He has made a fantastic recovery, remained positive throughout and can now walk unaided. Watch the video, it is just fantastic.

Stories like this are why Adventure Ashram exists and we cannot thank these wonderful supporters enough for giving Ven a chance for an easier life.

Could you support a boy rescued by Odanadi Seva Trust for as little as £5 per month? Click the link to learn more. https://www.adventureashram.org/odanadi-against-child-trafficking