Ritu R., 1

Ritu Rani is a 2-day-old newborn from a financially disadvantaged family of six. Her father is the sole earning member and works as a day laborer, earning approximately USD 49 per month, which is barely enough to meet the family’s basic needs and leaves him unable to afford the cost of his newborn daughter’s treatment. Ritu developed yellow discoloration of the skin with poor feeding and increased sleepiness and was diagnosed with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, requiring phototherapy, adequate feeding and hydration, medication, and close monitoring. Without timely treatment, her bilirubin level could rise further and potentially cause serious complications. The family learned about Helpster Charity through Helpster volunteer Sadika Rahman and is seeking support to ensure Ritu receives the treatment she urgently needs

With timely treatment, including phototherapy, adequate feeding and hydration, medication, and close monitoring, the child is expected to recover well and avoid serious complications. If left untreated, severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia can cause bilirubin to accumulate in the brain, leading to kernicterus, which may result in permanent neurological damage, hearing problems, developmental difficulties, or, in severe cases, death.