Dr. Meenesh Juveker, an ENT specialist from Mumbai, is making a life-changing difference for underprivileged children suffering from hearing loss. He tackles this challenge through free cochlear implant surgeries, a procedure typically costing a staggering ₹14 lakh.

Building a Network of Support

Dr. Juveker doesn't shy away from complex cases. When an underprivileged child with hearing loss walks through his door, he springs into action. Recognizing the financial burden, he partners with a network of roughly 8 NGOs to cover the surgery costs. This incredible collaboration has restored hearing for over 200 children so far.

Surge in Demand and a Helping Hand

The doctor highlights the expensive nature of the surgery, with a single implant costing around ₹10 lakh (₹3 lakh for surgery alone). He's witnessed a rise in hearing loss cases amongst underprivileged families since the pandemic. Determined not to turn any child away, he sought help from NGOs to provide free surgeries and equipment.

Expanding the Circle of Care

Dr. Juveker's initiative found a champion in the Radha Mohan Mehrotra Trust, who generously donated the surgical equipment. This enabled him to perform free surgeries at his own hospital. The complexity of the procedure required additional support. Here too, Dr. Juveker wasn't alone. Fellow doctors readily agreed to assist him with anesthesia and other surgical needs during these free procedures.

Training for a Wider Impact

Recognizing the limited number of doctors performing cochlear implant surgeries, Dr. Juveker embarked on another mission - training local doctors. This initiative empowers doctors in Nagpur, Amravati, Yavatmal, and Surat to offer free surgeries closer to patients' homes.

Beyond Surgery: The Power of Speech

Dr. Juveker's approach goes beyond the surgery itself. He understands that regaining hearing is just the first step. Children also require speech therapy for up to a year to learn how to recognize words and sounds. This crucial therapy is also provided free of charge, enabling children to not only hear but also speak, integrating fully into their lives.

Early Detection is Key

Congenital hearing loss in children demands early intervention. Cochlear implant surgery has a success rate exceeding 90% when performed between the ages of one and four. This rate dips significantly with increasing age.

Focus on Early Identification

The lack of mandatory newborn hearing screening is a major hurdle. Unaware parents often miss early signs of hearing loss in their children. To address this gap, Dr. Juveker offers free infant hearing screenings at his Chembur-based Juveker Hospital.

Dr. Meenesh Juveker's dedication and collaborative spirit are restoring not just hearing, but hope and opportunity for hundreds of underprivileged children.