Team Blitz India
COCHIN: Kerala has emerged as a top destination for treating children with Down Syndrome. A global non-governmental body in the US has identified Kerala as the top worldwide choice for providing treatment to children with Down Syndrome. Hearts of Joy, the organisation facilitating treatment for children from Mexico, Uganda, and the Philippines, has credited Kerala’s advanced healthcare infrastructure for its selection.
The body also mentions the compassionate professionals resulting in the inclusive care of differently abled children as one of the foremost reasons for better healthcare in Kerala. Approximately 90 children from various parts of the globe have received cardiac surgery through the NGO’s program, with 35 of them undergoing treatment in Kerala.
“These children need special care and help. But the most important thing is to treat them like any other child. There is no prejudice here against children with Down Syndrome,” said Lauren Costabille, the founder of Hearts of Joy.
“Around 50% of children with Down Syndrome suffer from congenital heart disease, which requires immediate intervention, and it is best provided in India,” she added.
It all started in 2017 when Lauren met a six-month-old child in Uganda who required surgery for her heart disease. The family couldn’t afford it. She researched where the best treatment was available and came to Bengaluru, where the child underwent the surgery. Later they shifted to Kerala for other treatments. Lauren was impressed by the quality of healthcare and learned that India is an option to send these kids.
The NGO, Hearts of Joy, provides treatment opportunities for children from Mexico, Uganda, and the Philippines in Kerala highlighting the state’s attraction due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and compassionate professionals.
