Times of India
29 September 2010
Bangalore, India

Free Surgery Camp For 200 Challenged Kids
Physically challenged children hailing from poor families have something to cheer. Sparsh Vachana, an initiative of Sparsh Foundation, the charitable wing of Sparsh Hospital, will operate on such children.

"This year, kids with complex musculo–skeletal problems, hand deformities and scoliosis – a medical condition where a person’s spine is curved from side to side – will be assessed and evaluated medically at a screening camp on October 4, 5 and 6," Dr Sharan Patil, chairman, Sparsh Hospital, said on Tuesday. The screening will take place at Sparsh Hospital, Narayana Health City, Hosur Road, Bommasandra.

At least 200 poor children below 16 years requiring expertise of top surgeons will be chosen during the screening. "At the camp, every child will be thoroughly examined and investigated by specialists and a report will be given to the family. Even if a child is not chosen, we will give a report on what treatment should be given to the child," he said.

The surgeries are scheduled to be held from November 1 to 14, Children’s Day. There will be 25 doctors, including specialized paediatric orthopaedic surgeons and anaesthetists from UK, USA and India, along with team Sparsh.

"The services will be free, including post–operative care. We are looking for contributions from individuals, organizations and corporate houses. It can be done by contributing any amount, sponsor a child’s complete treatment (Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh) or sponsor a day’s event by contributing Rs 20 lakh," he said.

Help At Hand
The common conditions to be addressed in Sparsh Vachana 2010: Deformities affecting limbs Neglected club feet Spine deformities (scoliosis) Hand deformities Cerebal palsy and associated deformities Post–polio deformities, nerve injuries Cleft lip and palate Post–burn contracture