Hetal’s Happy Heart

When she was just a few months old, Hetal became seriously ill with fevers and shortness of breath. Her parents took her to a nearby government hospital where doctors discovered a large hole in her heart — a ventricular septal defect (VSD).

Hetal’s father struggled to make ends meet for his family as a daily laborer in a produce market, and didn’t have the means to pay for the surgery the doctors recommended for her long term health. Instead, the family opted for medication for their daughter and hoped that her heart would heal on its own.

Sadly, the medication was a stop gap that could not eliminate the need for surgery, and it was not long before Hetal became ill once again. Her family was scared and did not know where to turn. Thankfully, they learned about LWB and applied for help from our India Medical Program.

We are happy to report that in late December, Hetal was admitted to Amrita, our partner hospital in India, and finally received the heart repair surgery she had been waiting for her whole life.

Much to her parents’ relief, Hetal came through her cardiac operation with flying colors and was already looking fantastic just a few days after surgery.

That sweet little grin says it all!

Please be thinking of this dear child as she continues her recovery at home. We are truly grateful for everyone who has supported LWB’s India Medical Program and look forward to sharing another year of happy, healed hearts with you in 2024!

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