Mauritian Boy, 12, Battles to Walk in India after Years of ‘Medical Wandering’

A 12-year-old boy suffering from cerebral palsy is currently undergoing life-changing treatment in India, marking the end of a decade-long struggle for specialist care. However, his family has issued an urgent plea for solidarity as they face a MUR 480,000 bill to complete his journey toward walking.

Dhruv, described by his mother as a “little warrior,” is finally receiving the medical attention that eluded him in Mauritius.

Despite being born prematurely and exhibiting symptoms from the age of one, the youngster spent years without a formal diagnosis or adequate equipment.

The family’s breakthrough came only in 2025, when a consultant at Rose-Belle Hospital questioned why overseas treatment had not been sought sooner.

A Decade of Closed Doors

For years, Dhruv’s parents navigated a repetitive cycle of hospital appointments that yielded little progress.

“A simple specialist consultation earlier could have avoided so much suffering,” said his mother, Diana, 42.

The lack of support extended beyond the medical field. Dhruv was frequently denied entry to nursery schools due to a lack of carers.

Despite these setbacks, he eventually integrated into the education system, supported by a dedicated taxi driver who carries him from the vehicle to his classroom every morning.

The Turning Point

Following a major operation on both feet on 9 October 2025, Dhruv was left bedbound and reliant on a wheelchair. His situation took a hopeful turn when the OMCA Foundation intervened.

Tasleem Dilloo, CEO of the Foundation, questioned the boy’s future beyond just providing a wheelchair.

The charity has since sponsored his travel to India, where recent MRI scans brought positive news: there is no permanent damage to the nerves in his legs, and with the right intervention, the dream of walking is attainable.

“The OMCA Foundation is an association that keeps its word… they gave us the greatest gift, a ray of hope from the sky,” Diana said from their hospital room in India.

An Appeal for Solidarity

While the Foundation has facilitated the trip, the total cost for the specialized therapy and surgery is estimated at MUR 480,000.

The family, whose household income slightly exceeds the threshold for state aid for an electric wheelchair, cannot meet the costs alone.

Mr. Dilloo emphasized that Dhruv’s case is not unique, noting that many Mauritian families remain unaware of the avenues available for overseas treatment.

He urged families in similar positions to contact the foundation for guidance and financial support.

How to Help

Donations for Dhruv’s treatment can be made via the following details:

• Bank : MCB
• Account No. : 000450 150011
• Code SWIFT : MCBLMUMU
• IBAN : MU37MCBL09440004501500110000MUR
• Reference : DHRUV
• Type : General Donation & Interest
• Contact : OMCA Foundation – +230 660 0210

Source: Defi Media