Mallika Mohandas, chairman, MIOT International, during the gathering of children who were saved by the intervention of CHIME charitable trust. | Photo Credit: J. Johan Sathyadas
Selvam Mani, who is about to appear for his entrance examination for higher education, was one of them, whose heart reportedly gave up. Thanks to financial support from CHIME for the family to afford the cure for his heart condition several years ago, his health was restored, giving him a chance at a normal, active life.
R. Yazhini, the mother of a six year old girl child said her child has become energetic after the successful surgery with the support from CHIME.
The gathering of several such children and parents at the hospital in the presence of medical professionals reiterated the importance of such financial assistance from private entities, pointing to the initiative which once began in September 2007 under the leadership of MIOT Chairperson Mallika Mohandas.
The “Beat of Life” Grand Reunion on Saturday, an initiative by CHIME, brought together children and families who once anxiously shared hospital corridors, waiting rooms, and hope.
At the heart of CHIME is the MIOT Centre for Children’s Cardiac Care, where paediatric cardiac surgeons have saved thousands of lives to date.
MIOT International chairperson Mallika Mohandas said CHIME was born from a single, unwavering promise: no child’s heart should stop beating simply because a family cannot afford the cure. What began as a deeply personal vow, soon grew into a life-saving movement, bridging the gap between medical excellence and social responsibility. Through CHIME, families who once had nowhere else to turn, found hope, healing, and a second chance at life.
“Many of these children come from financially vulnerable backgrounds, face complex congenital heart conditions that require specialised care they simply cannot access. Can you imagine the state of a parent who is told that their child’s life depends on treatment they cannot afford. Children carry sacred innocence. I made a personal promise no child with congenital heart disease would ever be turned away from MIOT because of financial constraints. That promise became the foundation on which CHIME was born. In 2007, I envisioned creating a safety net for a few families who came to us seeking care. Today more than 1300 children stand healthier and stronger because of this collective effort,” she said.
The day honoured the courage of these young children and their parents, as well as the MIOT’s paediatric cardiac team, whose skill and commitment turned uncertainty into survival. The donors were facilitated, in recognition of their generosity, dedication, and unwavering support for children.
More than a reunion, the event became a platform where stories of survival were shared, spreading awareness, and offering a sense of relief and encouragement to inspire hope in those who need it the most.
Published – January 25, 2026 04:30 am IST
