Just like Thevar's operation, the hospital took charge of heart operations of other children from underprivileged backgrounds by organising a marathon — Little Hearts Marathon — and raising funds
Seven-month-old Mahalaxmi Thevar from Tamil Nadu can now lead a healthy life. Thevar was diagnosed with a cardiac disease within a few weeks of birth. Her parents were referred to Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for bidirectional Glenn procedure to improve her heart function.
Just like Thevar's operation, the hospital took charge of heart operations of other children from underprivileged backgrounds by organising a marathon — Little Hearts Marathon — and raising funds. Most of these operations cost over Rs 2 lakhs, which are not affordable.
Last year, the hospital organised a similar marathon, raised funds and conducted 200 surgeries of children suffering from congenital heart disease.
Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO Wadia Hospitals, said "The aim of the marathon is to 'Save hearts, Save Lives'. This year, they aim to help more than 500 children, almost 50 patients are in the fray at Wadia Hospital to receive treatment. Approximately 100,000 babies are born each year with major and critical congenital heart disease in India.
Mahalaxmi's mother, Sabari, said, "Our family income is Rs 7,000 a month. We are not financially stable to pay the entire operation cost. Two months back my daughter underwent a successful surgery. While it was free for us, the amount of her surgery was raised through the marathon fund."
Dr Biswas Panda, children heart surgeon, said, "There is lack of awareness as well as detection facilities.
WORTH THE EFFORT
- Last year, the hospital organised a similar marathon, raised funds and conducted 200 surgeries of children suffering from congenital heart disease. Most of these operations cost over Rs 2 lakhs.
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