radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Less than a week after Guardian Media highlighted his story, Sanjay Sampat will be flying out to the Max Super Speciality Hospital in New Delhi, India, where he will begin life-saving cancer treatment.
Speaking to Guardian Media on Thursday, his brother Donald said they will be doing special prayers for him today, when he will celebrate his 21st birthday.
That transition into adulthood was something Sanjay had been eagerly anticipating. After writing his CSEC exams, however, his father lost his job. But Sanjay immediately went in search of work and started doing three jobs to help his family meet their bills until he fell ill.
Donald said Sanjay has been grateful for the outpouring of love and support he has received both nationally and internationally since his story was published.
“A lot of people from the wider community, as far as New York, reached us today and are willing to donate. We feel really happy about this. It is nice to see so many people come forward to assist,” Donald said.
On Monday, Sanjay will have a meeting with his doctors and by Tuesday, he will leave T&T with his parents.
Sanjay Sampat rests at the Sangre Grande Hospital.
COURTESY DONALD SAMPAT
The local Mayaro carwash, which is also raising funds for Sanjay, has been operating for extra hours.
“We washed cars until late last night. We are also selling the barbque tickets,” Donald said.
Sanjay fell ill last December and was diagnosed with leukaemia, a form of blood cancer.
Sanjay’s face has become paralysed, his vision is blurred, he can no longer smile and his legs are weak, shaky and painful.
His family, who lives in the sleepy community of Mayaro, is on a mission to raise $1.2 million to save his life.
Anyone wanting to assist Sanjay can contact 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 and Republic Bank Savings 470021929731.Donald can be reached at donaldsampat16@gmail.com.
