AHMEDABAD: A visit to the dentist might be scary for most children. But for 130 children of the Vadaj slum, it was an experience they will not
forget. Showing their new oral healthcare kits, the children flaunted their treated teeth at the dental camp organized by two NRI dentists from London.
When Dr Rupa Patel addressed her urge to do something for society, she and her husband Dr Jay Patel promptly chose Ahmedabad. “While visiting the city last year, we walked in to the slums of Vadaj and met many children living in poor hygenic conditions. We decided to do something for them,” says Rupa.
The couple zeroed in on NGO Samvedna and started a four-day camp. The endeavour was supported by dentist Dr Ujwala Mavlankar, who offered her clinic and equipment for the cause. The NRI couple has practised in London for 20 years.
“The kids have been amazing,” beams Jay, who stayed near Nadiad as a kid. “Most of the don’t have bad teeth, mainly because they use ground water rich in fluoride. However, most of them have bad gums which will cause trouble in future,” he adds. Accompanying the couple are their kids, Hemal and Vidhi, and their friends.
“Many of them need another sitting and timely care. We are creating records for Samvedna so that they can carry this forward with local doctors,” says Rupa.
Now, the couple’s colleagues in London are also looking to work with them here. The Patels are also planning to set a dental clinic at Vadaj where volunteer doctors from round the world can come and treat the slum children.
Source: Timesofindia
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