The Heartfelt Journey of the Saloni Heart Foundation: A Mother’s Mission for Change
In 2005, Mrinalini and Himangshu Seth’s lives took an unexpected turn when they learned that their nine-month-old daughter, Saloni, had congenital heart disease. This diagnosis marked the beginning of a challenging battle for the Seth family. Fast forward to 2011, after undergoing a life-changing surgery at Stanford Children’s Hospital in the U.S., Saloni experienced a remarkable recovery, defying all odds as she embraced a life filled with newfound energy and vitality.
However, the complexities of her medical history caught up with her in 2018 when she tragically passed away after suffering a stroke. Through their grief, Mrinalini and Himangshu gained a profound understanding of the disparities in medical care between India and the West, particularly in treating congenital heart disease.
In the wake of Saloni’s passing, the Seth family established the Saloni Heart Foundation in her honor, driven by a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of underserved families affected by CHD in India. Through the foundation’s initiatives, they have been able to provide vital support and resources to those in need, bridging the gap in access to specialized care and treatment for children with CHD.
Saloni’s Legacy: A Beacon of Hope
Saloni’s story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring the mission of the Saloni Heart Foundation to provide a lifeline for families grappling with the challenges of congenital heart disease in India. With a vision to create a lasting impact, the foundation operates on three core pillars aimed at addressing the critical needs of CHD patients and their families.
Firstly, the foundation offers second opinions to families in India, recognizing the importance of accurate diagnoses and treatment options. By connecting families with a network of specialist doctors in both the U.S. and India, they have provided over 6,500 second opinions, guiding families towards the best possible care pathways and financial assistance when needed.
Additionally, the foundation supports the dreams of aspiring medical students through scholarships in honor of Saloni, who aspired to become a pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon. By sponsoring 20 students and covering their tuition, housing, and books, the foundation is nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals dedicated to treating CHD patients with compassion and expertise.
Lastly, the Saloni Heart Foundation is committed to building a pediatric heart hospital in Lucknow, India, to directly address the treatment gap and provide free or subsidized CHD treatment to those in need. By partnering with the Uttar Pradesh government and leading medical institutions, the foundation is paving the way for accessible and quality care for CHD patients in India.
A Vision for Change: Looking Towards the Future
As the Saloni Heart Foundation continues to expand its reach and impact, the future holds promising opportunities for growth and transformation in the field of CHD treatment in India. With ambitious projects on the horizon, including the construction of a 200-bed pediatric heart hospital in Lucknow, the foundation is poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless children and families affected by congenital heart disease.
Through the unwavering dedication of Mrinalini Seth, Himangshu Seth, and their team, the Saloni Heart Foundation is not only honoring Saloni’s memory but also creating a legacy of compassion, resilience, and hope for future generations. As they work tirelessly to fulfill Saloni’s purpose on Earth, their mission serves as a testament to the power of love, determination, and community in driving positive change in the world.
Nandita Chowdhury Bose is Contributing Editor at India Currents. In Mumbai, she worked at India Today and Society magazines, besides other digital publications. In the United States, she has been a communications…
