Case Study
A Journey of Hope – Supporting SM
Shri SM, a technocrat and beloved friend, was battling advanced Parkinson’s disease. He required a critical surgical procedure called Deep Brain Simulation (DBS) at Jaslok Hospital, with a total cost of ₹35 lakhs. Part of the amount was arranged through the Tata Social Welfare Fund and other NGOs, still there was a shortfall remained. A heartfelt appeal by a close friend mobilized support from friends across the globe — but the challenge was Fund aggregation and coordination.
That’s where Kanak Parakh Foundation stepped in — as a trusted aggregator, coordinating between donors, the family, and the hospital. Within days, we consolidated ₹14 lakhs from 25 generous donors, enabling SM to receive the surgery. Today, he is recovering well and has regained his independence. We are still in touch with SM — because for us, support doesn’t end with the cheque — it continues with care.
Overview
In alignment with the Kanak Parakh Foundation’s (KPF) mission to honor human life and provide access to holistic healthcare, this case study highlights a successful collaboration to support a patient suffering from a degenerative neurological condition, enabling them to undergo a life-changing surgical procedure.
Background
The patient, a 55-year-old resident of Mumbai, had been living with Parkinson’s disease since 2011. Initially manageable, the symptoms progressively worsened, severely limiting mobility and the ability to carry out daily tasks. By 2024, the individual required full-time support and was nearly immobile.
Doctors recommended Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) – an advanced surgical procedure involving electrical nerve stimulation— as the best course of treatment. However, the complexity and cost of the surgery, estimated at INR 35 lakhs, posed a major financial burden. With support from a few philanthropic organizations, including a well-known social welfare fund, the patient was able to raise part of the amount. Raising the balance amount, remained a challenge.
A Challenge
A close friend of the patient initiated a heartfelt appeal within their college alumni network, garnering overwhelming emotional and financial support from well-wishers in India and across the globe.
However, managing donations across geographies and multiple resources, along with
ensuring timely hospital payments, presented operational difficulties.
The Solution
To address these challenges, the friend partnered with a trusted philanthropic advisor and mobilized the support of the Kanak Parakh Foundation. A coordinated, transparent process was put in place with the following key steps:
- A senior representative from a partner organization was appointed as Chief Project Coordinator under the mentor’s guidance.
- A structured fundraising appeal was prepared and shared with targeted donors.
- All donations were collected and tracked meticulously, with official receipts issued for every contribution.
- A liaison system was created to coordinate between the hospital and the patient’s family.
- Due diligence and compliance processes were followed for all fund transfers.
Within a short period, nearly 25 donors contributed generously funded INR 14 lakhs.
Impact
The patient underwent successful surgery in January 2025. The procedure, which lasted the entire day, was complex but ultimately effective.
Following post-surgical recovery, the patient regained mobility and is now able to lead a more independent and dignified life.
This initiative not only restored hope for one individual but also proved that:
- International and multi-currency donations can be effectively managed.
- A structured, process-driven approach can bring accountability and trust in philanthropic efforts.
- Community-driven action can lead to transformational health outcomes.
This case is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when compassion meets structure. Through collaboration, care, and a shared sense of purpose, a life was transformed-and a model was created for future philanthropic interventions.
Do you know someone facing a similar challenge?
If you come across a case where compassionate action could change a life, we invite you to connect with us. Let’s make hope happen, together.
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