Every morning, 11-year-old Dev sits quietly by a window in his family’s modest home, watching children his age run, play, and head to school. For Dev, those everyday scenes represent a life he longs for but cannot fully experience.

Dev has been living with a severe spinal condition that has progressively altered the shape of his back, making even basic movements difficult. Sitting upright for long periods, walking short distances, or standing comfortably requires immense effort. What should be ordinary childhood activities have become daily challenges.

Doctors first identified the condition when Dev was five years old. At the time, his parents were told that careful monitoring and treatment would be essential. Over the years, however, the curvature of his spine continued to worsen. The condition has affected not only his posture but also his breathing and overall comfort.

“Each year, we could see the change,” Dev’s father said. “At first, it was just a slight curve. Then he started complaining that sitting in class hurt. Now even standing for a few minutes is hard for him.”

Medical specialists have explained that early intervention could significantly improve Dev’s quality of life. However, the cost of advanced treatment has remained beyond the family’s reach. His parents say they have already used their savings on consultations, examinations, and basic care.

“We never hesitated to spend what we had,” his mother shared. “When it comes to your child, you don’t think twice. You just do what you can and hope it will be enough.”

Beyond the physical limitations, Dev also faces emotional challenges. While other children play sports and socialize freely, he often remains on the sidelines. His parents say he has endured unkind remarks and curious stares, experiences that have left him withdrawn but not resentful.

“He doesn’t complain,” his mother said quietly. “Sometimes he just asks why his body is different. And we tell him that being different doesn’t mean being less.”

Despite everything, Dev remains gentle and hopeful. He continues to express simple wishes: attending school without discomfort, playing cricket with friends, walking without pain, and breathing more easily.

“He doesn’t ask for much,” his father added. “He just wants to live like other kids his age. As parents, that’s the hardest part — knowing there is a solution, but not being able to reach it yet.”

Medical professionals say that with appropriate treatment, Dev’s condition could be managed, giving him the chance to regain mobility and comfort. For now, his family continues to seek options, holding on to hope that one day, Dev will no longer have to watch childhood pass by from a window.