After Despair, Smiles Return to 19 Children: Born with Deformities, Feared School

Born with congenital conditions or affected by accidental injuries, the children faced difficulties in daily life. Some struggled to walk, while others had abnormal facial features or fused limbs. Burn injuries had impaired the movement of certain fingers. Because of these challenges, many children feared attending school and felt isolated.

Many parents had sought treatment elsewhere but either couldn’t find the right care or were discouraged by the high cost. Upon learning about these cases, Collector Gaurav Singh decided that the district administration would ensure free treatment for all these children.

Free Treatment Brings Hope

Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai personally motivated the team to expedite the process. Out of the 19 children, treatment for five has already been completed, and they have returned home. Treatment for the remaining children is underway. Parents revealed that the cost of treatment would have been approximately ₹3–4 lakh per child, which they could not afford. Today, however, their children are smiling and hopeful for the future.

Individual Stories of Transformation

• Tukesh, Class 1: Tukesh had unevenly sized feet, making walking and playing difficult. Post-treatment by plastic and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Sunil Kalra, his feet are now almost normal, significantly improving mobility.

• Devi, 12 Years Old: Tukesh’s elder sister Devi had a bent wrist and fused legs, making her feel different at school. She was diagnosed with multiple limb deformities. After treatment, she is now able to move comfortably and is much happier.

• Varun Sharma, Class 10: Varun suffered a burn injury in childhood, which left his hand deformed despite previous surgery. He was treated for post-burn contracture, restoring flexibility and functionality to his left hand.

• Facial Deformities: Some children, like Prem and another girl, had facial deformities affecting their nose, lips, and mouth, causing them to fear social interactions. Their treatment is now complete, enabling them to lead a normal life.

Parents’ Relief and Gratitude

Tukesh and Devi’s parents, Salendri and Suraj Nishad, expressed immense relief, saying they had visited multiple hospitals earlier without success and had almost lost hope. The district administration’s initiative ensured free treatment, changing their children’s lives.

Varun’s mother, Rumanti Devi, shared that her family couldn’t afford another surgery, but the Zindagi Muskurayegi project resolved their lifelong struggle.

Administration’s Commitment

Collector Gaurav Singh emphasized that the project will continue, aiming to identify children with physical challenges who may feel isolated or depressed. The district administration covers most treatment costs, with doctors like Dr. Kalra providing services at minimal expense.

The initiative demonstrates how coordinated health interventions and community support can transform the lives of children, giving them confidence, mobility, and a renewed chance at a happy childhood