Pt. Avni Goel
Avni’s Journey: A Story of Strength, Survival, and Second Chances
Seven-month-old Avni Goel has already faced more challenges than many do in a lifetime. Yet, her journey stands as a testament to courage, resilience, and hope—not just for her, but for her mother, Seema, whose unwavering strength carried them through their darkest days.
At 37, Seema had already endured the heartbreak of three miscarriages. During this difficult time, she was also abandoned by her husband, leaving her to face life’s challenges alone. Despite the emotional pain, she chose to move forward with courage and hope.
A Fragile Beginning
During her pregnancy, while under observation at Pushpanjali Hospital, an ultrasound revealed a suspected Congenital Heart Defect (CHD). Understanding the complexity of the case, doctors referred Seema to Dr. Vikas Kohli for specialized care.
At 35 weeks, Seema delivered baby Avni prematurely at Mahendru Hospital, New Delhi. Soon after birth, Avni was shifted to the NICU at Sapling Hospital for critical care. After initial recovery, she was discharged, bringing a moment of relief to her mother.
But the struggle was far from over.
At just one and a half months old, Avni developed severe cold, cough, fever, and pneumonia. Seema rushed her back to the hospital, where she received emergency treatment.
Further evaluations under Dr. Kohli’s guidance revealed a life-threatening condition—Coarctation of the Aorta, a serious congenital defect that required urgent intervention.
A Ray of Hope
For Seema, a single mother with limited financial resources, the cost of surgery seemed impossible. In this critical moment, Dr. Kohli referred Avni’s case to the Child Heart Foundation (CHF), which immediately stepped in to support them.
CHF facilitated essential diagnostics, including echocardiography, and planned the required treatment without delay.
The Life-Saving Procedure
On 21st September, Avni was admitted to Indraprastha Apollo Hospital.
The very next day, on 22nd September, she underwent a balloon dilatation procedure to correct the defect. With the generous support of Mankind Pharma and the expertise of the medical team, the procedure was successful.
After careful post-operative monitoring, Avni was discharged on 23rd September in stable condition.
A New Beginning
Today, Avni is doing remarkably well. She continues regular follow-ups and is steadily progressing toward a healthy future.
Her journey is a powerful reminder of what compassion, timely medical care, and collective support can achieve.
Thanks to the Child Heart Foundation and CSR partner Mankind Pharma, Avni now has the chance to grow up healthy, happy, and full of life.