Phulbani: Family members of Pratish, who is affected by a rare disease, are worried over arranging funds for his treatment. With his head outgrowing his body, he faces problem every passing day.
Pratish (1), only son of Pagalu Mallick and Swati Mallick, was like any other common child at his birth October 23, 2015. However, two months after his birth, things took an ugly turn and his head began to swell every passing day. Hi is affected by a genetic disorder commonly known as ‘Progeria’.
He has stopped crying and lost his mobility while his hands are polio-hit. While children of his age play and have fun, he has stuck to his bed since birth.
With limited earning as daily labourers, Pratish’s family members failed to provide treatment to him in the initial days hoping it would disappear with time. To their shock, they learnt that the boy was affected by a rare disease that accumulates water on his head.
The doctor referred them to take the boy to Cuttack-based SCB Medical College and Hospital for further treatment. On learning the incident, the district collector extended a helping hand and provided Rs 5,000 for the boy’s treatment.
Later, a doctor in SCB confirmed water accumulation in the boy’s head. He said a whopping Rs 5 lakh would be required to carry out an operation. The BPL family tried to get some help from the authorities but in vain. Baliguda sub-collector provided another Rs 5,000 for the operation.
“My son has been suffering from an unknown disease and lost his mobility to speak and walk. I do not have money for his treatment as I am struggling to ensure two square meals for my family every day,” said the victim’s father.
“I request the administration to help my son get a new birth,” he said. His relatives and family members urged the district administration to arrange treatment facilities for the boy. PNN
