22-Year-Old Pooja’s Life Hangs in Balance
Rs 25–30 Lakh Needed for Cancer Treatment;
Titilagarh, October 4: She had dreams in her eyes—to complete her education, secure a job, support her family and ease the hardships of her father, who runs a small tea stall to make ends meet. But a sudden battle with a life-threatening illness has brought the dreams of 22-year-old Pooja Verma to a standstill.
Pooja, the elder of two daughters of Ganesh Verma, a resident of Raghunathpada in Titilagarh, is a meritorious student who has completed her postgraduate education. She had hoped to become financially independent and stand by her family. Today, however, she is fighting for her life at AIIMS Raipur.
For nearly two months, Pooja has been undergoing treatment for blood and bone cancer. Her family has already spent around Rs 7–8 lakh on treatment, diagnostic tests and other medical expenses. To meet the mounting costs, her father has borrowed money and even sold the family’s gold jewellery.
The Rs 5 lakh assistance available under the Ayushman card is also nearing exhaustion. According to the family, doctors have indicated that another Rs 25–30 lakh may be required for her further treatment.
For a family dependent on a modest income from a tea stall, arranging such a huge amount is virtually impossible.
Desperate to save his daughter’s life, Ganesh Verma has been approaching various authorities and individuals for assistance. He recently met Titilagarh Sub-Collector Padmanabha Samantaray and submitted a written appeal seeking financial support for Pooja’s treatment.
A Plea to Save Pooja’s Life
At this critical juncture, Pooja needs more than sympathy—she needs urgent medical treatment and financial assistance.
An appeal has been made to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to provide immediate government assistance so that the girl can continue her treatment without interruption.
At the same time, social organisations, industrialists, business communities, NGOs, philanthropists and compassionate citizens have been urged to come forward and contribute towards Pooja’s treatment according to their means.
A small contribution from many people can become a lifeline for Pooja.
Let us come together to give this 22-year-old a chance to live, dream and rebuild her future.
