Laxmi Begum, aged 75, lives in Bakerganj Upazila of Barishal. For the last 15 years, she suffered from a painful uterine fibroid that caused regular bleeding. As she had no fixed earning source and was dependent on her children’s income, Laxmi did not find the courage to seek medical help.

Laxmi’s health further deteriorated after she consulted village quacks for treatment in Bakerganj. It was her daughter-in-law who later introduced Laxmi to SAJIDA Hospital where she consulted Dr. Saria Nafia of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department. After a thorough check-up, she was suggested to undergo a hysterectomy operation which was successful.

With the support of SAJIDA’s doctors, nurses and care assistants, she recovered within a short time. SAJIDA hospital initiated a special fund for patients who are underserved and unable to avail emergency services, neonatal intensive care, operations, and diagnostics. Since 2019, more than 12,000 patients have received financial assistance from this fund.

Laxmi said, “I thought my condition will never be cured and I would have to bear this as long as I live. But now I have a new lease on life.”