Too Much to Bear: Manipur Youth Critical at SJH Delhi

NEW DELHI, MAR 14, 2017:  A young man, just 25 years old, came all the way from Manipur to Delhi—full of hope and dreams—to find a job. But instead of employment, he found himself in a hospital bed at Safdarjung Hospital, fighting for his life.

He is now in critical condition. Doctors have discovered a hole in his heart, a condition he's unknowingly carried since birth. The only way to save his life? An immediate heart surgery. But here’s the devastating part—the cost is between Rs. 5 to Rs. 10 lakhs.

"Be ready with at least Rs. 5 lakhs," one of the doctors told us.

We were shattered. How can a poor young man, who came looking for a livelihood, now be asked to cough up such an astronomical amount just to stay alive?

A nurse from the Northeast working at a private hospital whispered to us that some private hospitals charge Rs. 7 to Rs. 8 lakhs for similar surgeries. We used to believe government hospitals like SJH would be more affordable. But clearly—not always.

It left us questioning everything.

Is this corruption, or just the harsh reality of our broken healthcare system?

Are life-saving surgeries really priced on a whim?

Is hope only for the rich?

He still lies there, clinging to life.

All we can do now is pray... and act.

GOOD SAMARITANS RISE

In this darkest hour, hope came in the form of selfless hearts.

The patient’s family sends heartfelt thanks and blessings to the Good Samaritans:

Mr. Biakmuang Guite, General Secretary of Siamsinpawlpi (SSPP) JHQ Delhi, and

Mr. Thangkhanmuan, a BPO employee

…both of whom rushed straight from their night shift to the hospital to donate blood.

A big salute also to the Kuki Students’ Organisation, Delhi (KSOD) led by:

Mr. Thangrijoy Baite, President

Mr. Seilenmang Haokip, General Secretary

Mr. Sasat & Mr. Lien Mate, Information Secretaries

They all gathered at Safdarjung Hospital on the evening of March 11, 2017 (Saturday)—from all across Delhi—to do one thing: help a brother in need.

In moments like these, we are reminded of who we truly are—not just people from the Northeast, not just Delhi residents, but humans with a heart.

Let us continue to stand by each other,

to give hope,

to save lives.

In service of our Northeast brothers and sisters.

~ BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

(the helper of this young man)

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