National: Heart disease is a silent killer that affects millions of people in India, especially children who are born with congenital defects. These children face a bleak future, with limited access to quality healthcare and financial support. Unfortunately, only 25 per cent of these children receive the essential care they require, mainly due to a lack of awareness and resources. However, there are some organisations that are working tirelessly to change this scenario and give these children a chance to live a normal and healthy life. These organisations are the heroes of the heart, who are fighting for a cause that touches the core of humanity. Here are four such organisations that are making a difference in the lives of children with heart disease:
Genesis Foundation: SaveLittleHearts
Genesis Foundation was founded by Prema and Jyoti Sagar, following the loss of their second-born child Sameer to congenital heart defects (CHD). This inspired them to establish this foundation and support underprivileged children with CHD in India alongside offering the support their families need.
Their mission is to ensure that children suffering from CHD, whose families have monthly incomes below Rs 20,000, can access crucial treatment. The foundation to date has impacted the lives of more than 4,300 critically ill children, including 582 in the fiscal year 2022-23, maintaining an impressive 98 per cent success rate in surgeries is a testament to their dedication. This remarkable achievement is made possible through strategic partnerships with over 39 hospitals located in both Tier I and Tier II cities.
They serve as empathetic guides throughout the entire journey, from facilitating vital doctor appointments to ensuring thorough follow-ups after life-saving procedures. Their commitment to the well-being of these young hearts extends beyond immediate interventions, with ongoing impact measurement for up to three years. In a world where support goes beyond mere funding, Genesis Foundation’s hands-on approach sets a shining example of comprehensive care and unwavering dedication, bringing hope to families during their most challenging moments.
Being Human: The Little Heart Project
Being Human, the Salman Khan Foundation, extends its support to various initiatives in education and healthcare, with a particular focus on heart ailments affecting children. It was founded by Salman Khan, a Bollywood superstar and humanitarian, in 2007. Through their generous funding, they facilitate surgeries and treatments for children battling heart conditions. Their philanthropic efforts are a testament to the impact that a single individual, with a heart full of compassion, can make on countless lives.
Being Human has partnered with several hospitals across India, such as Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Asian Heart Institute, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, and Narayana Health City, to provide free or subsidised cardiac care for children from economically weaker sections of society. They also support other causes such as education for underprivileged children, skill development for youth, and relief work during disasters.
Child Heart Foundation: Making Heart Smile
The Child Heart Foundation stands as a pillar of support for children grappling with congenital heart defects. It was founded by Dr Vikas Kohli, a paediatric cardiologist, and seven parents who had experienced similar circumstances with their children and wanted to help less fortunate families, in 2013. From the initial diagnosis to treatment and post-surgery care, this organisation leaves no stone unturned in ensuring that every child receives the best possible care for their heart condition. Their commitment is a testament to the power of compassion in healing young hearts.
The Child Heart Foundation has several programmes that cater to the diverse needs of children with CHD, such as PraDAAN (providing financial assistance for surgeries), CHF HRIDAAN (providing free echocardiography screening camps), JEEVANSH (providing palliative care and counselling), PH LIFE CARE (providing support for children with pulmonary hypertension), and SUGYAAN (providing education and awareness on CHD). They also collaborate with various hospitals, corporations, and donors to expand their reach and impact.
Fortis Foundation: Saving Hearts, Changing Lives
Fortis Foundation’s ‘Save a Heart’ initiative is a shining example of how healthcare institutions can contribute to the well-being of society. It was established by Fortis Healthcare Ltd., one of India’s leading healthcare providers, in 2005. Their dedicated focus on paediatric cardiac surgeries for underprivileged children is a lifeline for families facing the daunting challenges of heart disease. Through their initiatives, Fortis Foundation is genuinely changing the narrative for these young hearts, offering them a chance at a healthier future.
Fortis Foundation has performed over 1,000 free or subsidised cardiac surgeries for children from low-income backgrounds since its inception. They also conduct regular screening camps in remote areas to identify and refer children with CHD for timely intervention. They work closely with various stakeholders, such as doctors, hospitals, NGOs, corporations, and celebrities, to mobilise resources and awareness for their cause.