This is the story of 19 year old Archana who has lived in great poverty in Mayapuri slum by the railway track. Archana’s family consists of 8 members; her parents and her younger siblings. Her father is the only earning member, working as a labourer in a scrap factory in the vicinity.
From what I understand, Archana was living in the village with her relatives, and was already suffering from Bronchial Asthma that was out of control.
When the pandemic struck, her father immediately lost his job. Asha reached the doorstep of the family and provided them with groceries, funds, medicines and other essentials. Had it not been for Asha, the family would have been driven to starvation.
After a few months, Archana’s parents decided to get her home to Delhi from their village.
When she arrived, the Asha Community Health Volunteer Sumitra met her and was shocked to find her severely malnourished as well as suffering from Bronchial Asthma.
She immediately took her to the Asha clinic where the health team did her health assessment. Her weight was just 25kg, her Body Mass Index was 13. She was severely malnourished, had anemia, and Bronchial Asthma.
She was immediately put on treatment for all these conditions, and was started on the Asha Laddoo as well as the Asha Sattu.
Gradually her Bronchial Asthma came under control, and she began to gain weight. Her hemoglobin went up from 6 to 9. All her micronutrient deficiencies were corrected. She became more alert, more energetic, and more positive.
Today she weighs 38kg and her BMI has gone up to 19.
“ I thought I would never get well. I had lost all hope. The Asha family saved me. The warriors are like my brothers and sisters. I receive love and comfort from the Asha family. Thank you for all that you are doing to save my life and bring me back on the road to recovery”, says Archana.
There are hundreds of young girls like Archana. I would have to write many books to tell all their stories. But with your wonderful support and your care for the poor, they are coming out of malnutrition and starvation. What a beautiful work you are all doing. Please continue to think of these young girls as the holiday season approaches and we are all getting ready to celebrate. Let’s make sure they have plenty to eat and nice clothes to wear. May we celebrate our holidays together with the poor and spread love and light in the holiday spirit!
