“I feel good that I am now a working woman. Even if it is very little, I can help my family.” Debashree (33) said with a smile as she hemmed a handkerchief.
It has been a long road to happiness for Debashree, who started having convulsions when she was just nine months old.
Debashree’s father took her to a local doctor in Halishahar, about 35km from Kolkata, and she got better.
But when she turned 12, her convulsions returned.
She was referred to a government hospital that prescribed a range of tests and medicines that cost the family a lot of money and had serious side-effects for Debashree.
“I hated my health problem,” said Debashree. “I felt like I was a burden to my parents and it scared me.
The situation became so bad that her father said: “In protest once she ran away from home. Thanks to our neighbours we brought her back home.”
Eventually, the family’s savings dwindled to the point where her father explained: “I told the doctor that I cannot pay for the expensive medicines and tests. The doctor introduced us to Calcutta Rescue.”
Debashree first came to Tala Park Clinic in 2007 and, after an initial checkup, CR’s doctors referred her to the psychiatry department. With proper counselling, medicines and support, Debashree’s life has improved out of all recognition.
“My health is a lot better now,” Debashree said shyly. “Not only that, I can work now. I want to support myself and my family. I am not scared of my health problem anymore.”
Debashree’s father is very happy. He said, “Thanks to Calcutta Rescue’s support my daughter is now doing well. I am forever grateful.”
