Mumbai: Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children has launched a unique initiative to provide life-saving cystic fibrosis (CF) medication—costing Rs 1.5 crore per child annually—free of charge to 40 children. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on families while delivering essential treatment for this chronic and life-threatening condition.
Chronic Genetic Disease Affects Lungs, Digestion
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs, leading to the buildup of thick, sticky mucus. This makes breathing difficult and hinders digestion.
Early Treatment Prevents Irreversible Damage
“Cystic Fibrosis is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, which disrupts the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. Common symptoms in children include chronic cough, recurrent chest infections, difficulty in gaining weight, and poor growth. Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive disease that, if not treated in time, results in irreversible lung damage and life-threatening complications. With early intervention and appropriate medication, it is possible to significantly improve both the quality and longevity of a child’s life. This initiative will truly be a lifeline for many,” said Dr Parmarth Chandane, Head of the Pulmonology Department at Wadia Hospital.
Families Express Relief and Gratitude
Tanuja Khare, the patient’s mother from Murbad in Thane district said that her 14-year-old son Bhavik suffers from severe lung infections. “It was heart breaking, and with our limited resources, we had almost given up hope. But now, with this free and timely treatment, he can finally breathe freely and live like other children. We are truly grateful to Wadia Hospital for giving our son a second chance at life. This support means everything to our family.”
Wadia Hospital Commits to Eliminating Care Barriers
“Every year, countless children suffer silently from cystic fibrosis because they cannot afford the prolonged and expensive treatment it requires. At Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, we believe in not just treating but transforming lives. By offering such costly yet essential medication free of charge, we are eliminating the financial barriers faced by many families,” said Dr Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO of Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children.
Hospital Vows to Expand Life-Saving Initiatives
“We will continue to take up such life-saving missions to ensure that no child is deprived of care due to financial constraints. With this initiative, we are not just giving out medicines—we are giving children the chance to breathe easier, grow healthier, and live longer. This is only the beginning of many such efforts to come,” she added.
