I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples – St. Mother Teresa

Today, 05 September 2022 is International Day of Charity, celebrated around the world in memory of St. Mother Teresa. CMC Vellore is committed to serving our socio-economically disadvantaged patients, like 23-year-old Selvi and her husband who are supported by CMC’s charity.

This young couple were elated at the birth of their first child. A few days after her delivery, Selvi developed a painful ear infection. Her face and throat were terribly swollen. She was unable to speak or swallow and the pain was severe. They went to multiple hospitals for treatment. Selvi was now struggling to breathe and the local doctors advised them to rush her to CMC.

Under the Department of General Medicine, Selvi’s complicated infection was treated. “Her life was in danger because of the infection had spread from her ear to the brain stem,” recounts her doctor. “She was in the ICU for a month, on ventilator life-support. It’s truly a miracle that she survived.”

Back in the general ward, Selvi, with her fighting spirit, became everyone’s friend. Unable to speak, she communicated through signs. “Have you eaten today?” she would signal to the nurses and social workers. Now she has recovered well enough for discharge but treatment and rehabilitation will continue for another 12 months. Selvi rocks her arms, indicating she is longing to be back home with her new-born baby.

On International Charity Day, take a moment to donate to CMC’s PTP (Person-to-Person programme) for poor patients. Your gift can create a ripple that saves the lives of young mothers like Selvi.

Ps. Today is also Teacher’s Day in India and we are very grateful to the dedicated teachers who mentored and guided us, making us who we are today!

*Contributed by the Department of General Medicine, Unit III