UTF’s Compassionate Intervention for Barsha Debbarma’s Recovery
In February 2020, a local news article shed light on the struggles of 10-year-old Barsha Debbarma from Debrai Kami, Purba Chandpur, in Hezamara RD Block, Tripura. Barsha, the daughter of Manash Debbarma, had been suffering from a severe skin condition that caused intense itching and widespread rashes. The discomfort and visible symptoms not only impacted her physical well-being but also led her to withdraw from social interactions, including attending school. Her condition left her in distress, unable to eat properly, and isolated, as she felt ashamed to leave her home.
Due to financial constraints, Barsha’s family was unable to afford the necessary treatment for her skin condition. Both of her parents, daily wage laborers, were struggling to make ends meet while attending to her needs, placing an immense burden on the family’s already fragile financial situation. When this heart-wrenching story reached the United Tiprasa Forum (UTF), the team quickly mobilized to support the family and ensure Barsha received the help she desperately needed.
On February 15, 2020, UTF dispatched a team to visit Barsha’s village and assess the situation firsthand. Upon arrival, they learned that Barsha had been admitted to Chachu PHC, the local hospital, thanks to the kindness of community members who couldn’t bear to see the young girl suffer any longer. UTF’s team immediately proceeded to the hospital, where they engaged in discussions with both her family and the treating medical staff.
The doctors at Chachu PHC shared encouraging news: Barsha was responding positively to the treatment, and her condition was gradually improving. However, they cautioned that due to the prolonged nature of her ailment, her recovery would not be instantaneous. The medical team estimated she would need an additional 4-5 days of hospitalization to stabilize her condition further, after which she would be discharged with the necessary medications to continue her recovery at home.
Barsha’s father, moved by UTF’s timely intervention, shared the family’s struggles with the team. He explained that her illness had prevented both him and his wife from working, as they needed to provide constant care for their daughter. The resulting loss of income had exacerbated their financial hardships, leaving them in an increasingly dire situation.
Understanding the family’s immediate needs, the UTF team took swift action to provide tangible assistance. They arranged for essential supplies, including 100 kilograms of rice, two trays of eggs, pulses, potatoes, and mustard oil. Additionally, UTF provided Barsha with notebooks and pens to encourage her education and help her resume her studies once her health improved. Recognizing the family’s financial challenges, UTF also provided a cash donation to help cover their expenses during this challenging period.
The United Tiprasa Forum’s compassionate response not only brought relief to Barsha and her family but also reinforced the importance of community support for those in need. By addressing both Barsha’s medical needs and her family’s immediate necessities, UTF exemplified its commitment to uplift the Tiprasa community and ensure that no one faces hardship alone.
This case serves as a testament to the power of timely intervention, kindness, and community solidarity. UTF remains dedicated to supporting individuals like Barsha, who are vulnerable and in need of assistance, as part of their mission to foster a caring and inclusive society.