Rewriting the Narrative in Ganesh’s Story
Four years after an accident left him paraplegic, Ganesh, a resident of Puducherry, has regained confidence in life, owing to the assistance provided by the Tata Trusts-supported Sanjeevan Palliative Care programme.
Mr. Ganesh from Kothapurinatham, Puducherry, underwent a remarkable transformation at 28 after a life-altering accident four years ago that resulted in paraplegia and the need for a colostomy bag. Initially confined to his bed and struggling with overwhelming challenges, hope seemed elusive. However, with the support and care of his mother and the Sanjeevan Palliative Care Team, his condition began to improve over time. The Sanjeevan is a palliative care project implemented by Sri Aurobindo Society (SAS) and supported by the Tata Trusts.
The Sanjeevan team provided not just medical supplies, but also vital emotional and psychological assistance. They trained his mother with essential nursing skills, including wound care and hygiene practices, Pratima Singh, a Community Health Officer (CHO) at the Health and Wellness Centre (HWC) in Amdi, Umaria district, Madhya Pradesh has been instrumental in revitalising the healthcare services in her locality. In the early days, her team functioned without easy reference to protocols and documentation, hindering her ability to deliver proper care. Recognising the need for improvement, Pratima sought guidance from the district team and engaged with the Madhya Pradesh Health Systems Strengthening Project’s Peer Facilitator initiative. Through this, she learned and implemented structured methods that enhanced the quality of care provided by her team and streamlined their operations. promoting a nurturing environment that improved his daily life.
With the team’s guidance, he engaged in physiotherapy sessions and regular medical visits that gradually helped him regain his strength and sit up independently. In addition, the Sanjeevan team alleviated financial burdens by supplying food kits and colostomy supplies, allowing his family to focus on his recovery rather than worrying about the finances. Today, Mr. Ganesh approaches life more confidently, actively participating in his care and enjoying an improved quality of life. His journey is a powerful reminder of how the light of support can guide one through even the darkest of times.
This story has been taken from the Tata Trusts' Annual Report 2023-24.
