Forced by fate, driven by courage: Woman fights disability with sewing machine, seeks help for treatment

The rhythmic sound of a sewing machine echoes not just the stitching of clothes, but the untold story of a young woman’s shattered dreams. Mamuni Bhoi, aged around 23–24, from Nariso Nidhi Sahi under Balipatana block in Khordha district, is battling illness, poverty and uncertainty with quiet determination.

Born into a poor Dalit family, Mamuni once dreamt of building a better future through education. With the support of her father, a daily wage labourer, she pursued studies up to Plus III. However, an unexpected health crisis changed everything. Her dreams faded, and the life she envisioned was left unfinished.

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Struggle for Treatment

The family has visited several hospitals, including Cuttack’s SCB Medical College, but returned disappointed. With limited income, the family survives solely on her father’s daily earnings. Mamuni’s monthly medical expenses are around Rs 10,000, an amount the family finds impossible to afford. As a result, she is often unable to take medicines regularly.

Stitching Hope by Hand

Despite her poor health, Mamuni operates a sewing machine using her hands, sitting on a stool and moving with difficulty from one place to another. Though sewing was never her dream, she continues to stitch clothes to support her father and reduce the family’s burden.

“We have to carry her from one place to another, and we do this repeatedly. Two to three people are always with her to look after Mamuni. If one member has to take full responsibility for caring for her, how will the rest of the family survive? We are 6 members in the family, It’s a request to the govt to provide us with financial aid,” said Mamuni’s mother.

A Call for Support

Mamuni and her family now look towards the government or private organisations for help. With timely assistance, they believe her treatment could continue and her struggle eased.

Her story stands as a reminder of resilience and a plea for compassion.

Public assistance for Mamuni’s medical treatment and daily needs can be sent to this address:

Name: Mamuni Bhoi, Father’s name: Dhobala Bhoi, Village and Panchayat: Nariso, Block: Balipatana, District: Khordha
Mobile number: 9078570617