In early March 2008, a film director and his crew were commissioned by the Dr.Mani Children Heart Foundation. Their goal was to tell the heart-rending story of families devastated by congenital heart disease.
Sakthi travelled hundreds of miles into rural districts to meet and record the narrative of little 5 year old Surjit’s parents. The captivating moments are on video - you can watch it below:
In mud huts with thatched roofing, Surjit’s family lives in abject poverty - and his mother hoped and prayed that someone would help her child live.
The force of her message carried around the world. And on Monday, 21st July 2008, Surjit had his heart defect repaired - in an operation funded through $2,500 in donations to the Dr.Mani Children Heart Foundation.
A week later, smiling shyly, the little boy posed for a photograph with his mother.
The relief and joy on her face are testimony to the impact hundreds of generous donors are making on the life of a family they have never met - but a family who will never ever forget them!
Today, the smiling youngster left hospital to return back home.
The $2,500 Smile!
Sadly, there are many thousands more like him who cannot afford treatment. Their families too hope and pray. And maybe, like Surjit, they will have a chance - soon.
You can help make it happen. Learn how - click here.
Surjit’s was the 24th surgery funded by the Dr.Mani Children Heart Foundation.