At ten years old, Vasantha was small for her age and growing weaker by the day. Her father had passed away, and her mother struggled to provide even one meal a day. In a crowded neighborhood of Hyderabad, where illness often meant isolation and fear, Vasantha’s future looked fragile. Without medical care or support, she would have likely grown sicker, missing school entirely, another forgotten child in the margins.
But because of generous, faithful partners like you, her story would not end prematurely, her illness would not have the final say.
Vasantha continued attending a local feeding center, where a hot meal and tutoring were always available to neighborhood children. What began as access to needed assistance became the beginning of a life-changing journey.
Vasantha grew more ill over time. She lost weight rapidly and could barely walk. Doctors, with the help of Back2Back staff, ran tests and discovered a life-threatening lung infection. The diagnosis carried a heavy stigma in India; patients are often shunned, left to battle sickness alone.
“When we received the final diagnosis, we immediately stepped in,” shared Goldie Karnati, Back2Back India Director. “She had a communicable disease, and people were afraid. But love calls us to move closer, not away.”
Back2Back staff transported her to a hospital, choosing faith over fear. Her condition was dire, and doctors warned she might not survive. Yet through prayer, medical care, and the kindness of dedicated nurses, Vasantha began to heal.
For three months, staff visited daily, prayerful and encouraging as her strength returned. Once home, the team ensured she had the food and medication needed to fully recover. Six months later, once on the cusp of not recuperating, Vasantha was declared completely healed.
Recovery meant she had lost half a year of schooling, along with hopes of passing her exams. Still, with support, tutoring, and prayer, she persisted. When the call came from her principal, no one expected the words that followed:
“Not only did she pass, she scored the highest marks in the entire school!”
Today, Vasantha is twenty years old, in her final semester of university, and interning with a software company. She dreams of a career that allows her to give back and currently mentors younger Hope Program students, reminding them that anything is possible.
“Vasantha has become a wise, hardworking young woman,” shared Goldie. “She is a marvel, and a reminder of God’s faithfulness.”
Without the care and consistency made possible by your giving, Vasantha’s story might have ended in loss. Instead, it’s one of life restored – a story sustained by your partnership.
Together, we can continue helping children like Vasantha forge new paths, experience healing, and discover who they were always meant to be – until every child is known & loved.