A 12-year-long separation came to an end on Friday (June 12) when a mentally challenged man undergoing rehabilitation at Nazareth Home for the Mentally Ill in Thalavadi was reunited with his family.

Ashik, a native of Madhya Pradesh, was admitted to the home in 2014 after he was found wandering the Gobichettipalayam area. He had forgotten his identity and was unable to provide details about his family or native place. According to the home, he underwent treatment, counselling and rehabilitation over the years and gradually recovered. As his condition improved, efforts were stepped up to trace his identity and family members.

The home’s director, Fr. Arun Kumar, verified details relating to his native place and relatives. With the help of police, his family members were eventually traced and contacted. The reunion with his parents and relatives took place on Friday, nearly 12 years after he was separated from them.

Officials of the home said the episode underscored the importance of long-term mental health care and rehabilitation services in helping individuals reconnect with their families and communities. The management thanked police and others who helped them trace and reunite him with his family.