IN a world fraught with challenges, there are remarkable individuals who stand as beacons of hope and compassion, shining a light on the darkest corners of society. Purnota Dutta Bahl, the founder of Cuddles Foundation, is one such inspiring figure, dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children battling cancer.
Cuddles Foundation is a non-profit organisation that focuses on providing holistic nutrition to underprivileged children undergoing cancer treatment. The foundation believes that nutrition plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system and improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients. Purnota’s journey with Cuddles Foundation began with a heartfelt mission: to ensure that no child should have to fight cancer on an empty stomach.
Childhood cancer in India is a significant public health concern, with thousands of young lives affected by this devastating disease each year. Cancer, once largely associated with older adults, is now increasingly affecting children, making it crucial to understand the magnitude of the problem and address it effectively. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), childhood cancers are 7.9% of all cancers in India. Although this percentage may seem small, it translates to a significant number of children diagnosed with cancer every year. The most common types of childhood cancers in India include leukaemia, brain tumours, lymphomas, and bone tumours. But according to a National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) report in India, childhood cancers in the 0–14 age group accounted for 4.0% of all cancers. Whatever be the number, the incidences are one of the highest in the world.
An NGO on a mission
In India, over 75,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year. Shockingly, 40% of these children are malnourished at the time of diagnosis, significantly impacting their chances of survival. Cuddles Foundation recognizes this critical issue and takes action to improve its outcomes. Through expert care provided by trained clinical paediatric nutritionists and caregivers, the NGO ensures that children undergoing cancer treatment in hospitals receive the nourishment they need. This includes nutritious meals, monthly ration baskets, and supplements, all designed to strengthen their bodies and enhance the effectiveness of medical treatment. With Cuddles Foundation’s support, these brave young fighters gain a better chance at beating cancer and reclaiming their childhood.
Purnota’s motivation to create a meaningful impact in the lives of children with cancer was deeply personal. She witnessed her dear friend’s child, battling cancer, and discovered the critical role that nutrition played in the child’s fight against the disease. This realisation fueled her determination to create a support system for children from low-income families, who often face immense challenges in accessing nutritious food during cancer treatment.
Childhood cancer and nutrition
Experts say that childhood cancer is curable in most cases. But there is one major challenge – malnutrition. It poses a major problem as around 40% of the children in India with cancer suffer from undernourishment and starvation. It is one of the causes of poor outcomes, say studies done in the field.
History of Cuddles Foundation
Founded in 2012, Cuddles Foundation started its mission in Mumbai, India, and has since expanded its reach to multiple cities across the country. The organisation works tirelessly to identify and bridge the nutrition gap faced by children undergoing cancer treatment. They collaborate with various government and private hospitals to ensure that children receive proper nutrition during their treatment journey. Today, Cuddles Foundation is one of the top cancer care NGOs in India helping the poor, especially children.
One of the primary objectives of Cuddles Foundation is to provide personalised and nutritious meal plans for each child, taking into account their medical condition and dietary preferences. These specially curated meal plans are designed to boost the children’s strength, enabling them to endure the harsh side effects of cancer treatment and improving their overall well-being.
Additionally, Cuddles Foundation goes beyond providing just nutritional support. The non-profit also conducts educational programmes for parents and caregivers, empowering them with knowledge about proper nutrition and its impact on their child’s recovery. Through these initiatives, Purnota aims to create a long-lasting impact by instilling a sense of awareness and self-sufficiency in families facing the daunting challenges of cancer.
Purnota’s leadership
Purnota’s visionary leadership and relentless dedication have earned Cuddles Foundation numerous accolades and recognition on national and international platforms. Her team of passionate volunteers and professionals work tirelessly to bring a smile to the faces of thousands of children battling cancer.
With an unwavering commitment to the cause, Purnota Dutta Bahl has transformed the lives of countless children and families, offering them a glimmer of hope amidst adversity. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that a single act of kindness can create a ripple effect, touching lives and shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
As Purnota continues to lead Cuddles Foundation with determination and compassion, she remains a guiding force in the realm of philanthropy, proving that love and care can heal even the deepest wounds. Her tireless efforts are a testament to the power of empathy and the transformative impact it can have on the lives of those in need.
Through its work in the field, Cuddles Foundation is not only helping the children with cancer in various forms but also providing them hope, strength, and love.
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Kumara was a professional journalist for over 15 years, with stints in The Telegraph and Reader’s Digest. He grew up hating maths and physics. He is a post-graduate in history. Kumara believes that cricket and Seinfeld have answers to most questions that life throws at you.
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