Smit, a young boy from the Mumbai region living with thalassemia major, faced severe iron overload affecting his liver, requiring complex and long-term medical management. In 2024, his family made the difficult decision to relocate to Bengaluru to access specialised care and a safe pathway toward a bone marrow transplant.
Despite treatment centres closer to home, Smit’s condition demanded intensive downstaging unavailable locally. The rigorous regimen—day-long intravenous chelation six days a week—was physically exhausting and emotionally taxing for Smit and his family. Midway through, the passing of his grandfather compounded their distress and strained finances, making continued accommodation in Bengaluru impossible.
Under Sankalp India Foundation’s specialised care, Smit underwent months of closely monitored intravenous chelation to reduce iron overload and prepare for transplant. Sankalp ensured structured support and admission so treatment could continue without interruption.
Beyond his medical journey, Smit demonstrates remarkable resilience. An exceptionally talented painter, he uses art to express himself and find strength during long hospital days. His story highlights the interplay of medical complexity, family sacrifice, and human spirit, underscoring that comprehensive care must attend to both clinical needs and emotional wellbeing.