Mumbai, 21st August 2025 ( TGN ): In a heartwarming initiative that has changed the lives of around 619 children suffering from congenital heart defects were given a new lease on life through free heart surgeries performed at Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Centre for Child Heart Care, located in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. This initiative was made possible under the ‘Gift of Life’ project led by the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport, under the guidance of PP Nitin Mehta, Chairman of the project, successfully raising ₹10 crores to fund these life-saving procedures.
To celebrate this incredible milestone, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar visited the hospital to meet the children and their families. He shared heartfelt moments with the young patients who have now begun a new chapter of life after their surgeries.
Paediatric cardiac surgery is a specialized procedure performed on babies and young children born with heart defects—conditions such as holes in the heart, valve problems, or abnormal blood vessels. These defects, if not treated early, can cause severe complications like breathlessness, stunted growth, repeated infections, and even early death. Each year, over 2 lakh children are born in India with congenital heart defects, and around 70,000 require surgery within their first year. However, due to financial hardship and lack of awareness, many children don’t receive the timely care they urgently need.
PP Nitin Mehta, Rotary Club of Bombay Airport and the Chairman of the Gift of Life project, said “Every child deserves a healthy heart and a chance to live their dreams. It breaks my heart to know that so many children in our country suffer simply because their families can’t afford life-saving surgery. Through the ‘Gift of Life’ project, we are trying to change that. When I see a child smile after surgery, I know we’ve given them more than just medical care — we’ve given them a future. This isn’t charity; it’s humanity. I feel truly blessed to be a part of this mission to turn helplessness into hope.”
Dr Prabhatha Rashmi a Senior Consultant & Head of Department of Paediatric Cardiac Surgery · Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, added “Babies born with heart defects often appear weak, struggle to breathe, feed poorly, or turn bluish due to lack of oxygen. These conditions, known as congenital heart defects, can be life-threatening if not treated in time. Some babies may need surgery within weeks or months of birth. These are delicate, complex procedures—but they can save a child’s life. Early diagnosis, usually through screening or echocardiograms, plays a vital role. The sooner the condition is detected, the better the chances of survival. Timely treatment not only prevents complications but gives the child a chance to grow up healthy and active, just like any other child. Delaying surgery can lead to heart failure, poor development, and even death. That’s why awareness, regular checkups, and access to quality care are crucial for giving these little hearts a new beginning.”
Legendary India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, who joined the celebrations, expressed his admiration for the project “Meeting these brave children was truly moving. Their courage, and the selfless work being done by the hospital and Rotary Club, is inspirational. These are the real heroes. It’s heartening to see how many lives can be changed with timely action and generosity.”
The Gift of Life project continues to stand as a shining example of how collaboration, compassion, and commitment can transform lives—one heartbeat at a time.
