We knew since then that he had a heart problem. There was a solution: We had to get him operated. He could live without all that suffering of only he could undergo a surgery, but we could not afford it. My husband is a weaver and earns Rs.500 a week.

As the months rolled by, Bilal grew up to be an active and cheerful toddler. The heart problem did not interfere much, and we slowly began to stop worrying about it.

Bilal is now 4. Recently he began falling ill again. The little one becomes so quiet when he is ill. He cries sometimes, and then lies quietly, without talking to anyone. It scares me a lot.

I have also had a heart problem since childhood. Back then, we did not have access to all these medical facilities like we do today. I underwent a surgery as well. My problem was moderate and could be controlled by medication. That is how I am living. I had never imagined it could get this serious for my son.

Off late, his condition had worsened terribly. The doctors declared that he will not make it unless he undergoes a surgery urgently.

My baby is only 4. I would do anything to save him, but with a weekly income of just Rs. 500, we cannot to get him treated. A mother must protect her children against all odds, but I feel completely powerless before the sufferings of my dying 4-year-old.