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My name is Vikrant Vig. Imagine standing outside a bustling hospital, watching a mother clutch her children, tears streaming down her face as she desperately tries to gather enough money for their treatment. I witnessed this while waiting for my own treatment, chemotherapy, and that moment changed my life forever. In her tears, I saw not just her struggle, but the silent battles fought by countless others — unseen, unheard, and often alone.
That mother’s pain inspired me to make a promise: to transform my suffering into purpose. As long as I have breath, I will stand by the hungry and the suffering, ensuring that no one faces their struggles in isolation.
In 2020, my world turned upside down with the words “stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma”
Chemotherapy drained my strength, leaving me weak, losing my hair, and fighting a constant wave of fear. But each visit to Safdarjung Hospital revealed another struggle: patients and caregivers sitting hungry, tired, and without hope. My father often reminded me during these difficult days that we should do whatever we can to ease the pain of others. His words stayed with me, and I knew I had to act.
With my brother Abhishek and sister-in-law Nitu, I began cooking meals at home, to distribute to the hungry men, women, and children, that I saw every day. It was hard at first, with limited resources, long hours, and the physical toll of my own treatment. But the smiles of the five, then ten, and soon fifty people we served gave me strength. In July 2021, we registered Apurva - The Helping Hand Foundation, named after my daughter. We had one goal: to provide not just food, but dignity and care.
We nourish both stomachs and souls during the toughest times of people’s lives
Today, Apurva serves over 400 meals daily and has provided more than 10 lakh free meals to more than 7 lakh patients and caregivers since its inception. We’ve also distributed medicines, blankets, and medical equipment to those in need. I’ve seen the difference good food makes. More than just filling stomachs, it uplifts spirits and even aids recovery during chemotherapy.
I’ll never forget the little boy battling cancer whose birthday we celebrated. We brought him a cake, some toys, and for a moment, his laughter drowned out the beeping of hospital machines. My daughter and I believe that helping others is the best way to stay strong and make life meaningful. I see this truth every day in the sparkle in someone’s eyes after a meal.
Hunger is a pain I’ve seen up close and it’s as relentless as disease itself
Though we’re feeding hundreds each day, there are thousands more waiting for a plate of food. At just ₹25 per person, one meal can bring immeasurable nourishment and hope. Our monthly costs total ₹632,000, and with your support, we can reach our goal of serving 1,000 meals daily and providing healthy supplements to boost immunity and recovery. But my dream doesn’t end there. I envision a free cancer hospital where patients will have access to treatment, food, and shelter without worrying about costs.
This is my promise to my daughter, Apurva, and to the countless people who inspire me every day. Together, we can make sure no one facing cancer has to fight hunger too. A small donation from you can create ripples of hope.
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