Raipur | November 26, 2024 When life feels engulfed in darkness, even a glimmer of hope can light up the entire journey. This is the inspiring story of 15-year-old Asha Chakresh from Remte village, Kunakuri block, who battled the life-threatening disease of sickle cell anemia. Facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, her life took a positive turn through the Chief Minister’s Special Health Assistance Scheme, which provided her the much-needed financial support of ₹20 lakh for a bone marrow transplant.
Asha’s Struggle with Sickle Cell Anemia
Asha was born with a rare and severe form of sickle cell anemia, a condition that affects only one in ten lakh people. Her parents, laborers by profession, were devastated upon learning about her illness. Despite their limited means, they left no stone unturned in seeking treatment for their daughter.
Asha’s mother, Vimla Bai Chakresh, recalls her late husband, Mangalram Chakresh, tirelessly working to provide for Asha’s treatment. The couple used their meager savings and sought assistance through schemes like Ayushman Bharat, traveling to hospitals in Raipur, Indore, and even Mumbai. However, no treatment seemed to offer a permanent solution.
From a young age, Asha required regular blood transfusions, forcing the family to bear significant medical expenses. Tragedy struck when her father passed away in an accident, leaving the family in despair and Asha’s treatment seemingly out of reach.
A Ray of Hope: Government Assistance
During a medical camp organized by the district administration, doctors advised a bone marrow transplant as the only viable solution. However, the procedure’s cost was far beyond the family’s reach. The administration stepped in, providing ₹1 lakh for preliminary tests in Raipur. Despite this, the high cost of the transplant remained a hurdle.
It was then that doctors informed the family about the Chief Minister’s Special Health Assistance Scheme, which provides financial aid for critical illnesses. The family submitted an application to the health department, which was promptly forwarded to the office of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai. Recognizing the urgency of the case, the Chief Minister swiftly approved financial assistance of ₹20 lakh.
With this support, Asha underwent the bone marrow transplant at a leading hospital in Raipur. A suitable donor was identified, and after a successful operation, Asha was given a new lease on life.
A Mother’s Gratitude
Asha’s mother expressed her heartfelt thanks to Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, stating, “Without this support, saving Asha’s life would not have been possible. We are forever grateful for the timely assistance provided by the Chief Minister.”
Conclusion: A Life Transformed
Asha’s story is a testament to how government initiatives can bring hope to those in dire need. The Chief Minister’s Special Health Assistance Scheme not only saved her life but also reaffirmed the commitment of the administration to supporting the health and well-being of its people. Today, Asha and her family look forward to a brighter future, filled with gratitude and optimism.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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