An Indian woman’s visit to New Zealand took a tragic turn last December when she suffered a severe heart attack, leaving her family grappling with emotional and financial turmoil.
“It was a lovely night with the family, right before tragedy struck,” said her son-in-law, Ishan Dhammi.
Prem Lata, 53, had travelled from Karnal, India, to support her daughter after childbirth. However, an unexpected medical emergency upended their lives. She suddenly fell ill, vomiting and experiencing severe pain in her left arm and breathlessness, prompting her family to rush her to Whakatāne Hospital. Doctors confirmed she had suffered a major heart attack in the early hours of December 17.
Mounting Medical Bills
The family raised $40,652 through a Givealittle campaign set up by Dhammi, but the final hospital bill totalled a staggering $119,984.04—leaving them with a $70,000 shortfall.
After a two-month battle, Lata was discharged, but she remains partially paralysed on her left side, making it difficult to walk without support.
“We’re relieved that she’s home, but the financial burden is overwhelming,” Dhammi said.
Despite appeals to local authorities and community organisations, no substantial financial assistance has been provided. With time running out to settle the bill, the family is again reaching out to the public for help.
From Celebration to Crisis
On December 16, Lata enjoyed a family dinner in Whakatāne with her daughter, son-in-law, and two grandchildren. The evening was filled with warmth and joy, but just hours later, she woke up in immense pain.
“My wife and I were asleep when we heard my mother-in-law call out in distress,” Dhammi recalled.
Recognising the symptoms of a heart attack, they rushed her to the hospital, where doctors confirmed their worst fears.
A Battle for Survival
CPR was administered immediately, and Lata was placed on a ventilator. Her condition remained critical, leading to her transfer to Tauranga Hospital for specialised care.
“She moved a finger, and the doctors told us there was still hope,” Dhammi shared.
Despite initial progress, Lata developed pneumonia in the hospital, worsening her condition. She was placed back on a ventilator but eventually pulled through after weeks of intensive care.
Community Support Needed
Although Lata has now been discharged, the financial challenge remains daunting. The family continues to seek donations to cover the remaining medical expenses.
Those willing to help can contribute through their Givealittle page: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/fighting-for-life-1
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