“My daughter Jamuna was the school topper, in her 10th class quarter exams also she scored an impressive 432/500 . Everybody had such high hopes for her - we were expecting her to break records with her 10th board results. But her rare disease completely took over her life by then; she couldn’t even move, let alone study or write exams.”- Pandeeswari, mother.
‘She has been living with this for over ten years'
Jamuna was a vibrant smart girl who had big dreams. She used to be the apple of her teachers’ eyes. She wanted to study and secure a good job so that her modest family background could be elevated. But roughly ten years ago, something happened that was completely unexpected and would change the course of the rest of her life.“In 2013-14, we observed dry, dark patches on her skin. It had started forming on all parts of her body. We were told that it was just a skin condition at first and she was taking medicines for it. But she started becoming weaker with every passing day. Further tests told us that she was suffering from a severe rare condition.”- Pandeeswari.
Jamuna was diagnosed with Systemic Sclerosis is a group of rare diseases that involve the hardening and tightening of the skin. It has now also caused interstitial lung disease with high blood pressure in her, which has completely affected the quality of her life.
‘She needed a lung transplant at the earliest, but her family was not in the position to afford it’
Owing to her condition, Jamuna was completely dependent on an oxygen cylinder. Her lungs were completely damaged, and a lung transplant was the only way she could survive.“We spent close to 50,000 every month for her medicines and oxygen needs. My husband is an ordinary bus driver, my son is in college but even he has taken up odd jobs to fund his sister’s treatment. I cook at small stalls and at events to make whatever money I can. But this is not enough.” - Pandeeswari
Due to the unwavering support from people like you, Jamuna underwent a successful lung transplant. Her recovery has been nothing short of a miracle. For the first time in seven years, Jamuna has started walking again. Defying all odds, she has shown remarkable progress when many patients face significant complications after such a major procedure.
Her doctor describes her recovery as extraordinary, a testament to her strength and the power of collective support. While Jamuna’s successful transplant is a significant milestone, her journey is far from over. To ensure her full recovery and prevent any complications, she needs additional support. Her doctor is optimistic that with the necessary support, Jamuna can achieve a full recovery.
Jamuna’s family has exhausted all their resources. Her father’s modest income as a bus driver and her brother’s earnings from odd jobs are not enough to cover the post-transplant expenses. Without timely support, Jamuna’s fight for a healthy, fulfilling life could be compromised.
Your contributions can give Jamuna the best chance at a complete recovery. Let’s come together once more to ensure this brave young girl can continue defying the odds and live the life she has always dreamt of.
Together, we can make miracles happen.
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