Sharad and Maruthi’s Story

Sharad and Maruthi’s success story through the public health program

Making someone happy is a profound yet challenging endeavor, and this story is about two remarkable tribal children, Sharad and Maruthi, who live in the Bannerghatta reserve forest near the Hakkipikki colony in Bangalore, India. Despite their challenges, their journey is one of resilience, care, and joy. Both Sharad and Maruthi face unique health issues that make their daily lives incredibly demanding. Sharad, 11 years old, has muscular dystrophy, which has left him unable to walk since the age of five. Maruthi, an 8-year-old, was born with cerebral palsy. Their parents, who earn modest daily wages of around ₹8,000 per month, have worked tirelessly to support their children.

Sharad’s parents, Gowri and Muthu, endured a painful loss when one of their children passed away. Sharad, their only surviving child, became the center of their world despite his condition. Maruthi’s parents, Raju and Lakshmi, are equally devoted to their two children. Despite the hardships faced by both families, they have remained resilient and hopeful for a better future for their sons.

The One Billion Literates Foundation (OBLF) stepped in to support these families by initiating primary health care services and fostering strong relationships with the communities in the area. During their outreach, they identified Sharad and Maruthi’s special needs and referred them to St. John’s Hospital’s Unit of Hope for monthly check-ups, treatment, and guidance. OBLF covered all medical expenses, ensuring the children received the necessary care and medication.

The doctors at St. John’s Hospital recommended wheelchairs for both children to improve their mobility and quality of life. OBLF collaborated with the Association of People with Disability (APD) in Bangalore to secure the wheelchairs.

The moment the children received their wheelchairs was transformative. For Sharad, the wheelchair symbolized newfound freedom, allowing him to meet his friends with an infectious smile that lit up his face. Maruthi, too, experienced a sense of independence and happiness that he had never felt before. Their families were overjoyed, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the support that brought this change to their lives.

This story highlights the power of compassion and community. By working together, OBLF and its partners brought joy and relief to these children and their families. It reminds us that true happiness often comes from making others happy, as seen in Sharad and Maruthi’s smiles. Let this story inspire us all to strive to make a difference, one step at a time.