60-year-old Samuel (name changed) made a living by mending shoes and cleaning cars in a residential area in Vellore. He was a familiar face, known to many in the local community. After a hard day’s work, Samuel would retire to the streets or nearby government bus stops as he had no place to call home.
One day, he tripped and fell in a public restroom and broke his hip. Passersby picked him up and left him at CMC gate. Unable to stand and in pain, Samuel lay there unattended. Our Mission’s Office quickly stepped in to help. He was brought to CMC’s casualty for medical care.
The Department of Orthopaedics did a hip replacement surgery at no cost to Samuel. People who knew him came together to help. Staff took turns to stay with him in the ward. Two housekeeping staff donated blood for him. After he was discharged, he moved to the low cost Chatram (Shelter). Thanks to the rehabilitation support of the PMR team, he began to walk on his own. Today he is back on his feet and is a happy resident of Sumai Thangi Illam, a local old age home.
All this was possible with the combined effort of friends, well-wishers, the staff of CMC and even kind strangers. Hugh and Debbie, you can make a difference and support the Person-To-Person (PTP) fund that helps deserving patients like Samuel. Celebrate the joy of giving!
Picture and story shared with patient’s consent. Contributed by the Missions Office
