case studies

Fakeera Pathan

Fakeerabhai Kasambhai Pathan, aged 45, lives in Ektanagar, Laxminagar, Vadodara. Three years ago, he began showing symptoms of leprosy. Upon contacting the field worker in his area, he was referred to a doctor, who confirmed his diagnosis. By staying in regular contact with the field worker and following the prescribed medication, he was successfully cured.

He has a wife and four children. Although he worked hard by renting a pedal rickshaw, after paying rent and repair costs, he struggled to save money. Every year, the organisation supports those in need, and upon his request, Fakeerabhai was provided with a pedal rickshaw. He now works in Sardar Estate, transporting goods throughout the day. Since he owns the rickshaw, he no longer has to pay rent, allowing him to earn enough to support his family. He is deeply grateful to the organisation for this invaluable support.

Shankarbhai

Shankarbhai, originally from Valsad, has been an inmate at the campus for the past 27 years. He is around 55 years old. He was diagnosed with cancer in his left leg, which appeared normal externally but was cancerous from within. Upon diagnosis, he received complete medical care at the hospital. His left leg had to be amputated below the knee.

Once his treatment was completed and the wound healed, the process of fitting an artificial leg began. With training and physiotherapy, he gradually adapted to using it. Initially, he relied on crutches, but as his confidence grew, he began walking independently and eventually returned to work. Today, he happily serves at the Shram Mandir Security Cabin.

Ramnath Swami

For the past three years, Ramnath Swami has been an inmate at Shram Mandir’s Old Age Home. He was affected by leprosy around 30 years ago. Originally from Shrirangam village in Tamil Nadu, he is well-educated and previously worked as an inspector in a British company. After being diagnosed with leprosy, he sought help from several organisations. For a time, he worked as a physiotherapist but later chose to spend his remaining years at Shram Mandir.

Now 85 years old, he enjoys reading books, particularly The Times of India, though his vision in one eye is deteriorating. He never misses attending morning and evening prayers. In his words, "I wholeheartedly pray to the Lord for all leprosy-affected individuals and those who work for them."

Kashiben Garasiya

Kashiben, now 75 years old, has been living at Shram Mandir Trust for the past 15 years. Originally from Gambhira, she lost her father in childhood and was raised by her mother, who worked to make ends meet. Kashiben also worked from a young age. After being diagnosed with leprosy and receiving treatment, a doctor informed her about Shram Mandir Trust, where she was later admitted to the Old Age Home.

For some time, she worked in the organisation’s kitchen and hostel, but she is now unable to work. In her words, "I live happily here. I walk with the support of a stick, take the Lord’s name, and help others whenever I can. This is how I will live the rest of my life." With her cheerful nature, Kashiben is beloved by the children and even donates her extra money to the organisation.

Pooja

(Children’s Education Project)
Radheshyam Ninama, a 36-year-old patient from Ratlam, was admitted to the hospital in a severe condition due to leprosy. His 9-year-old daughter, Pooja, accompanied him, having lost her mother. Due to his poor health, he was unable to provide adequate details, and Pooja helped fill in the necessary information.

Since she had been travelling with her father for many days, Pooja was weak and in poor condition herself. She stayed with him in the hospital for the first few days. As she only spoke Hindi, the environment was unfamiliar to her. On the fourth day, she was admitted to the hostel. She felt like she had entered a new world, often crying and attempting to run back to the hospital. The staff gently comforted her and brought her back each time.

Gradually, Pooja started bonding with the other girls. They welcomed her as a friend, and she soon began attending school and tuition classes in the morning and evening. She also started learning Gujarati. Now, Pooja plays, studies, and eats with the other girls, feeling completely at home.

Her father remains under treatment but has decided to stay at Shram Mandir even after recovery to ensure a better future for Pooja. His hands were severely damaged, leading to great personal loss, but with treatment, his condition is improving. Pooja visits him daily at the hospital, but now, her true home is the hostel.

Trupti (Kamini) Vasava

(Children’s Education Project)
Trupti came to Shram Mandir in 2003 and has been part of the organisation since childhood. She completed her primary education at Shram Mandir Primary School and later attended high school in Vadodara. After finishing school, she pursued a Nursing Assistant course alongside her graduation. She is currently preparing for her final exam in the course.

During her training, she completed a six-month internship at a well-known hospital in Vadodara. Passionate about music and dance since childhood, she actively participates in the organisation's programmes.

Now 19 years old, Trupti is preparing to return home. With a good education and a nursing degree, she is ready to start an independent life. She feels proud to have achieved financial self-sufficiency, fulfilling her long-held dream.