What are you made up of? Steel or Plastic! — Continued

Mr Ramu says, “It was the first time in South India Dr Cherian performed the Stem Cell procedure. I would call him ‘The son of God’. His eyes will only search for options to make the heart live longer. He would do anything to get the heart work. He had a ‘Mammary Bank’ which gave me the life. For the past 10 years, I’m with him. He wants my heart to be up and running. Recently I developed Angina problem and Dr Cherian advised me to undergo a 36 day course called EECP with which I am comfortable. I am thankful for my lifetime for Dr Cherian and my Cardiologist.” 

That’s when, out of curiosity, I asked him, “What made you go through all these pricks and pills for so long. What inspired you to go through endless medication?” He said, “It involves her not me”. He looked at his wife, Mrs Sundaravalli. 

Mrs Sundaravalli says, “When a doctor orders ‘Cut oil in cooking’, it is cut for the entire family. But tasty food is prepared some how. Food is man’s health. This is my only mantra. This is one big bond called ‘marriage’. I am here to care for my husband from the day he tied the wedding knot. There is no other work bigger or better than just serving my family the right food and creating a happy environment under all circumstances.”

No dramas. Just prayers, lakhs of “Sriramajayam” (God’s name) written everyday on scores of papers give her the strength. She tracks every physical change and ensures all check-ups are done right on time. 

As a young girl, I have heard of the story “SaavithriSathyavan” who stopped sunrise to save her husband. And today, here is a Saavithri who lives not only for the husband but for her kids’ achievements. This woman’s compassion has not only made Mr Ramu get up, run his several crore turnover company giving employment to several families; but it has also helped their next generation excel in their respective fields – Contributing to the entire humanity. 

All the 3 children have excelled in their respective fields. The first daughter is a doctorate under Shri MS Swaminathan and has developed world’s first Multiple Micro Nutrient Enriched Salt. The son an M Tech heads the one of the largest Animal nutrition company in India and the third daughter MBA from IIT manufactures sugarless sweets and allied products for diabetics and health watchers.

Like Mrs Sundaravalli, there are very many Saavithris who live for their families alone. They bring the laughter amidst crises, infuse balanced emotions and care into a home. Their worlds may be small, but they contribute to the entire world.