“We are cursed with poverty. I don’t remember a time, my husband or I ever felt we had enough or for that matter, felt anybody in our life has enough. Having one child was a choice we made because of our financial state. His sudden illness, blood cancer, it has left us feeling so helpless.”

Saniya fought to have only one child, a brave stand in their community

Saniya was married off to Asmat at a very young age. She realised early on that their financial condition cannot support a large family. She ensured they stopped at one child, an uncommon stand to take in their family.

“If we are not sure where our next meal is coming from, how do I foster this insecurity in multiple children. I rather ration what I am to eat to my one and only Shayan. I rather spend money buying him toy cars than buy myself clothes. He is my world.”

Shayan, diagnosed with cancer at the age of 5

For Saniya, Shayan’s constant battle with fever was extremely worrying. Multiple tests later, a month ago, they found out that he suffers from Leukemia, blood cancer and the treatment requires 5 lakhs.

“I am shocked. I am scared. I am broken. I wonder why a family that is already struggling so much is put through this. I wonder why I didn’t get cancer. I wonder why it had to be my little baby boy, a mere 5 year old. A young boy who has his entire life ahead to jump, dance, run and flourish.”

Not ready to give up despite difficult times, this strong mother needs your support

“It was my dream, that my son will break this curse of living hand to mouth. I cannot imagine a world without Shayan. I cannot watch him suffer with this disease. I am praying everyday that I get all his suffering, so he can live a happy healthy life.”

Asmat does not have a proper job and Saniya takes tuition for 2 kids. She has only 2 students who pay her Rs 500 each. Barely earning Rs 6000 a month, this family has no source to afford the treatment.


Saniya, a strong mother and wife, does not wish to give up hope despite life throwing obstacles her way constantly. She still believes, God will help them see better days via their son Shayan. She has a lot of fight left in her for her son to be cured. For a family that comes from nothing, your contribution will help them realise the light at the end of the tunnel.