Maria Sauvou expresses her immense gratitude to the Sai Prema Foundation hospital, crediting it with saving her daughter from the struggles of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). Her daughter, 16-year-old Ulamila Naivalu, has battled RHD since she was just one year old.
“It has been 15 long and difficult years for us. I am so grateful that on Thursday she had a successful operation,” Ms. Sauvou shared. The relief of having the surgery completed felt like a heavy burden lifted, allowing her daughter to live more freely now.
“Now, there are no more worries, no more sleepless nights, no more pain, and no more injections,” she added. Over the years, Ms. Sauvou ensured that Ulamila was surrounded by a supportive environment filled with encouragement during tough times.
“There were moments when Ulamila showed signs of her heart weakening and I would rush her to the hospital for her injections. It was truly a challenging time for both of us, especially for her,” she recalled.
With unwavering family support and constant prayers, Ulamila managed to persevere through the hardships. For many years, Ms. Sauvou explored options, with surgery being their only hope. This led them to the Sai Prema Children Hospital.
“When I first learned that she had RHD, I felt like the world had failed me. I was overwhelmed with emotion, knowing she was still so young, and I lost all hope until Sai Prema Children Hospital entered our lives,” she reflected.
“I am profoundly grateful that there are facilities like this—ones specifically dedicated to helping children with this disease. Like many parents, we feel blessed by this foundation. It truly is a miracle,” Ms. Sauvou emphasized.
She urges other parents not to hesitate in bringing their children for check-ups. “We are not financially well-off, but God answers prayers and led us to the Sai Prema Foundation hospital. The staff and medical team were incredibly caring and made Ulamila feel at home. It provided a truly comforting environment.”