Hope of life brings Chennai woman to Bangalore

A Chennai-based woman, who had an ovarian tumour weighing 25 kg, now has a chance to resuming a normal life. Her doctors have said the tumour is benign and are hopeful that it can be removed.

Saloni, 50, was diagnosed with tumour 10 years ago and had no hope of a surgical remedy. Recently, while surfing news channels, she learnt about city-based Auto Raja, an autorickshaw driver who is famous for his philanthropic activities.

She called Auto Raja three months ago and expressed her wish to stay at the orphanage for people suffering from terminal illnesses; she came to Bangalore 20 days ago and has managed to raise `3 lakh for her treatment.

For years now, Raja has been helping the destitute abandoned on the road and taking them to ‘Home of Hope’, an orphanage in Doddagubbi village, where they are looked after.

Dr Narendra Rao, a visiting doctor at the orphanage, said she has an ovarian tumour and “it is unlikely to be cancerous.”

Now, Saloni has to undergo tests before she can be operated. Auto Raja has said he would admit her to a private hospital on Sunday. “If the test results are favourable, she can be operated upon and the tumour removed,” said Dr Rao.

“Saloni says she is very happy to be here,” Auto Raja said.