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One fateful day, Dr Abhijit Sonawane, a physician, encountered a beggar who had been living amidst garbage for eight long years, resorting to unimaginable measures for survival.
"Often, while searching for food, he would end up eating his stool. I was beyond shocked to witness this. I knew I had to do something. What I didn’t know then though, was that I would dedicate my life to the purpose of rescuing and caring for old beggars like him.” - Dr Abhijit Sonawane.
Healing the helpless on the streets
He rescued the old man, providing him with care and shelter. "I felt guilty for not reaching him on time," admits Dr. Sonawane, haunted by the thought that intervention could have come sooner. The beggar's passing became a turning point, inspiring the doctor to embark on a mission to help more souls like him.Amid the bustling streets and sacred places in Pune, a man with a heavy bag, clad in a white coat and a stethoscope around his neck, walks with a purpose. Dr. Abhijit Sonawane is not your typical physician; he is a healer of a different kind. "Being a doctor is not just a matter of profession but that of attitude," he says, reflecting on his unique calling.
Creating entrepreneurs out of beggars
Once a struggling doctor facing financial hardships, Dr. Sonawane found an unexpected lifeline in the form of an old beggar couple who had fed with food and gave him money from whatever little they had earned from begging."For me, the old couple were my parents… They supported me financially and emotionally. How could I ever repay this generosity? I was indebted to them for life. This compassion became the catalyst for my life-altering decision. - Dr Abhijit Sonawane
Dr. Abhijeet left his job that paid him over 5 Lakhs to dedicate his entire life to needy people Determined to make a difference, Dr. Sonawane resigned from his job in an international medical organization in 2015 to dedicate his life to free poor people from their illnesses through the Soham Trust, along with his wife, Dr Manisha Sonawane.
His commitment led to a unique initiative known as "Beggars to Entrepreneurs," where he not only tends to their medical needs but also empowers beggars to reclaim their dignity. More than just social work"
"This is no more an initiative or project for me. I feel this is my responsibility as their son/grandson. We not only provide medical care but also emotional support to those abandoned by their families." - Dr Abhijit Sonawane.
The passionate doctor has helped 37 senior citizens give up begging and take up small businesses. His team also conducts regular health check-ups on the streets of Pune, addressing the medical needs of the underprivileged population.
He needs your help to continue his mission
Despite the challenges, Dr. Sonawane's work has transformed the lives of 175 beggars over eight years. However, the journey is far from over. To continue and expand his efforts, he dreams of establishing a training center to upskill beggars and put an end to begging.Despite his transformative work, Dr. Sonawane faces challenges due to a lack of resources and appeals for support from society to help more lives.
"Today, I don't only have two parents. But over 300 of them still live on the roads. My dream is to establish a training center that can uplift beggars through skills and eradicate the need for begging. Funds are urgently needed for acquisition of various machines and equipment essential for skill development, as well as the procurement of necessary materials like tables, chairs, and office infrastructure. Additionally, financial support is crucial for obtaining various medical equipment, ensuring comprehensive healthcare services within the envisioned facility. Your contribution will play a vital role in creating a transformative space that empowers individuals through education, skills, and healthcare.” - Dr. Abhijit Sonawane.
You can help this doctor in his cause. Click here to contribute.
