“Kiran* call your father and ask him to bring some fruits,” calls Narasamma* from the kitchen. Her 15-year-old son rises from the cot, his science textbook open, calling to get his father’s attention. At first glance, this family of four from Narsimpalli seems ordinary. But beneath the surface lies another story – of Kiran’s battle with cancer.
It began in 2022 when a road accident left Kiran and his father, Lokesh, injured and admitted to a local hospital. Though their wounds healed, Kiran’s recovery was slower than expected. Fatigue lingered for long and Kiran suddenly was not the kid who was active and mingling with his peers. One day, the RDT Community Organiser in the area visited their house and urged the family to seek medical tests at the RDT Bathalapalli Hospital.
By the time they arrived, Kiran had collapsed and was rushed to the emergency ward. Despite the isolation measures in place during the pandemic, the hospital made space for him and conducted extensive tests. The diagnosis was devastating: Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), a rare and aggressive blood cancer.
“Learning my son had cancer felt like the world collapsing,” recalls Lokesh*, his voice trembling. Yet, amid the confusions the family faced, RDT’s Paediatric Cancer Project became a support to them. The project aims to ensure that children in rural Anantapur have access to comprehensive cancer treatment, bridging the gap in specialised healthcare for rural communities.
Kiran was suggested to transfer to a higher medical institution in Bangalore for further treatment, and the family travelled by ambulance arranged the next day the ailment was diagnosed. Over the next 40 days, Kiran underwent chemotherapy and regular blood transfusions. His parents, daily wage earners, juggled work, caregiving, and mounting expenses. The emotional toll was heavy, RDT provided financial assistance to look after their son’s health.
“Kiran’s courage kept us going,” says Lokesh*, tears welling up. Today, Kiran continues his remission and enjoys the time he spends with his peers
The RDT Paediatric Cancer Project has supported 72 children like Kiran, providing not just medical care but also ensuring the right of every child to health and well- being. Today, as Kiran sits on the cot, his science textbook open once more, life feels almost normal again. But this normalcy is hard-won, by a family thrust into the most extraordinary circumstances and a reflection of their resilience.
*names in the article have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals.
Text: Mathusree Menon
