Three days after he left his home in Mayaro, cancer-stricken Sanjay Sampat finally arrived at the Max Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi, India, on Sunday.
Speaking to Guardian Media yesterday, his brother Donald said it was a strenuous 14-hour flight from New York to India for Sanjay. Despite having bouts of headaches, fatigue and nausea, he said Sanjay tried his best to remain in good spirits.
His parents Chatram and Shanty accompanied him to the hospital.
Donald said his brother received two pints of blood on Monday, as his blood count was low.
“He will get another pint today (yesterday),” Donald explained. He said Sanjay underwent a bone marrow biopsy on Monday and the doctors were awaiting the results.
“They also did some blood tests to see if he has any infections, otherwise he’s OK. They need to wait on the bone marrow report to see which treatment suits him best,” Donald added.
The family has been praying that Sanjay makes a full recovery. There have been other cancer patients who went into remission after getting treatment at the Max Hospital, so they remain hopeful.
Donald said they were still trying to figure out how they will pay for Sanjay’s full treatment over the four months. So far, they have only raised enough money for one month’s accommodation, a US$10,000 downpayment for treatment and the airfare.
Donald said they have a series of fundraising activities ongoing but also renewed his call for the public to donate.
Sanjay was diagnosed with leukaemia, a form of blood cancer, after falling ill last December.
Shortly after finishing school, his father Chatram lost his job but Sanjay took up the slack working three jobs to care for his family.
After his diagnosis, Sanjay underwent several rounds of intense chemotherapy but his face became paralysed and he lost his ability to smile. Sanjay’s vision is now blurred and his legs are weak, shaky and painful.
Several fundraisers are being held to help with his medical expenses. His neighbours and friends run a daily carwash and a curry-que is scheduled for June 26.
Anyone wanting to assist Sanjay can call 388-7029 or 715-1126 or 792-2134. Donations can also be made to https://fundmetnt.com/campaign/help-save-sanjay-sampat. Also at RBC Savings AC#100096170742097.
