A Testimony of Faith, Hope, and Healing
1. The Crisis Begins (2015)
In 2015, my wife, Mrs. Benedicta Aaron, aged 74, was admitted to Oscar Hospital in Malad (W), Mumbai, with a diagnosis of Dengue. Within a day, her condition deteriorated rapidly—high fever, severe swelling, and a critical decline in her health. Doctors at the hospital gave up hope, urging us to inform relatives as the situation seemed beyond recovery.
2. A Race Against Time
My daughters, standing strong by their mother's side, refused to give up. They attempted to shift her to Lilavati Hospital, Bandra, but no beds were available. Despite multiple calls and desperate efforts, nothing seemed to work. In a moment of divine intervention, a Redemptorist priest stationed in North India provided the contact of Dr. Conrad Vas. Reaching Dr. Vas was a challenge, but my daughter Teresa’s persistence paid off after hours of waiting at Lilavati Hospital. Dr. Vas agreed to admit Benedicta at 7 PM.
3. A Critical Diagnosis
Benedicta was immediately admitted to the ICU, where she remained for 10 days. After extensive tests, the doctors diagnosed her with a rare, incurable condition known as Cold Agglutinin Disease, characterized by the presence of antibodies that attack red blood cells. She was prescribed steroids (Prednisone) and weekly injections of Erythropoietin - 10000 units. Her condition required quarterly blood tests, conducted exclusively at Lilavati Hospital due to the need for immediate processing to prevent clotting.
4. A Life of Continuous Care
Benedicta’s health has been a delicate balance. She suffers from chronic jaundice, managed with periodic other treatments. Her complete blood count (CBC) never rises above 10, and her platelet count fluctuates dangerously between 1 and 1.5. Her condition worsens in cold weather, causing her body to turn blue, necessitating constant thermal wear. Steroids have led to significant weight gain, masking her underlying weakness. Despite not being diabetic, she requires sugar tablets due to steroid-induced hyperglycemia.
5. Faith: The Anchor in the Storm
While medical science provides support, it is unwavering faith that sustains us. Every day, I dedicate hours to prayer—the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3 AM and 3 PM. I have entrusted Benedicta to Our Lady of the Forsaken, our parish patroness, and continuously ask Mother Mary to intercede with her Son, Jesus, to bless my wife with renewed strength. My plea has always been simple yet profound: "Lord, grant her just one drop of Your Precious Blood for new life."
6. Miracles Amidst Medical Battles
Benedicta has faced near-death experiences multiple times, including three emergency ICU admissions due to dangerously high potassium levels and critically low blood counts. She underwent Bone Marrow Test and PET Scan. Every time she went to ICU, she was treated with different antibiotics injections. Yet, each time, she has returned from the brink. Her doctors, Dr. Conrad Vas (Senior Consultant Physician) and Dr. Abhay Bhave (Hematology-Oncology Specialist), acknowledge that her survival defies medical explanation. Their advice remains constant: "Stay in prayer and continue the treatment."
7. A Decade of Divine Grace (2015–2025)
Now, ten years since her initial crisis, Benedicta remains in the loving hands of Jesus and Our Lady of Forsaken. Despite her fragile health, she continues to live, a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and perseverance. The doctors often remark, "You’ve touched the gates of heaven, but God has sent you back. Keep it up."
8. Conclusion: A Life Sustained by Love and Prayer
Benedicta’s journey is not just a story of illness but a testament to divine intervention and the relentless spirit of a family bound by love and faith. Every challenge faced, every prayer whispered, and every tear shed has been a part of this miraculous journey. Her life is proof that with God, nothing is impossible.
Arockiaraj Aaron
(Husband of Benedicta)
Parishioners of Our Lady of Forsaken Church
Malwani, Malad (W), Mumbai
Thank you very much, for sharing, such an uplifting,hopeful & loving journey, filled with trust, prayer & divine intervention, bound together with family love & faith!!! Alleluia!!!!!!! Plenty to teach us!!!!!!!!!!!