In the small village of Vishamangalam in Tamil Nadu, a 14-year-old boy named Bharath faces one of the world’s rarest diseases—Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP). But while his condition turns soft tissue into bone, what remains unbreakable is the spirit of a loving mother, a resilient child, and a hope for a better tomorrow.
The First Signs of FOP
At just nine months old, Bharath developed swelling in his neck. His parents, agricultural labourers with very limited income, took him from one hospital to another—Indira Gandhi Hospital in Bangalore, Madras Medical College, and Apollo Hospital, Chennai—in search of answers. In 2014, the mystery was finally solved at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore: Bharath had FOP.
The news was devastating. A disease with no cure, limited treatment options, and a future filled with physical challenges. But what followed was even more painful.
A Family Torn Apart
Strained by financial hardship and overwhelmed by the diagnosis, Bharath’s father abandoned the family. His mother, now the sole breadwinner, had to leave Bharath and his younger brother in their village to work as a tailoring assistant in Tirupur, over 230 km away. She earns just ₹300 per day and can only return home once a month.
Bharath now lives in an open shed next to his uncle’s home because modifications are not allowed in the main house. There’s no proper toilet, no ramp, and no way for him to move without help. His elderly grandmother is his only support for bathing, toileting, feeding, and even changing positions.
What Bharath Needs
During a home visit by FOP Trust India, the following needs were identified:
- A recliner chair and wheelchair with beanbag support – to help with sitting and comfort, as his hip is deformed.
- Home modifications (ramps, toilet access) in the shed.
- A sewing machine for his mother, so she can return home and earn a living from the village while taking care of him.
- Basic comfort items: a cot, mattress, and support for lung exercises.
FOP Trust has already provided a recliner. But much more is needed.
How You Can Help
You can support Bharath and his family by donating to FOP Trust India. Your contribution will go directly toward:
- Medical aids and comfort items
- Modifying his living space
- Helping his mother regain income independence
All Donations Are Tax-Exempt Under Section 80G
Not only are you changing a life—you’re also eligible for income tax deductions under Section 80G of the Indian Income Tax Act. Philanthropy isn’t just about giving—it’s about building a more just and compassionate society.
Be the Reason Bharath Smiles Again
Your kindness can keep a family together, bring dignity to a child’s life, and ensure that Bharath doesn’t face FOP alone.
Donate Now
Scan the QR code or use the bank details below:
Account Name: FOP TRUST
Bank: IDFC First Bank
Account No.: 10166904526
IFSC: IDFB0080172
Branch: HSR Layout, Karnataka
