Published on: March 19, 2026

Strength in Caregiving and Lived Experiences

It has been just over a month since I began working with the children’s palliative care team, and it already feels like the beginning of a deeply meaningful journey. Each day brings new learning, new questions, and quiet moments that stay with me long after the day ends.

I first met many of these families through ‘Rithu’ in January, a space created for parents who walk a long and uncertain path with their children who were our patients. The name ‘Rithu’, meaning seasons, carries a gentle reminder that no winter lasts forever. It represents change, resilience, and hope.

When I first met our little patients, I wondered how I would communicate with children. I initially assumed the safest approach was to communicate through their parents. But over time, my perspective began to shift as I realised that communication with these children goes beyond words.

During home care visits to meet our little champs and their families, my understanding began to deepen. We were welcomed into every home with a warmth that needed no formality. It felt less like visiting a patient and more like being received by people who had made space for us in their lives.

In those homes, it became clear that communication does not always depend on spoken language. Parents notice everything about their kids – the slightest movement, a change in breathing, even a blink of the eyes. Nothing goes unseen. And the children respond in their own ways: a brief smile, a glance, or a pause that carries meaning.

In a world that values spoken language and clear answers, this silent communication felt powerful. It reminded me that observation is not passive; it requires patience, attention, and humility, something I am still learning every day.

Spending time with these families also revealed something else: the incredible strength of parents. They continue to face new challenges while caring for their children with strength and commitment. It was this understanding that led to the idea of organising a Rithu Parents Meeting on Livelihood Support. Many caregivers, especially mothers, dedicate most of their time to their children’s care, leaving little opportunity for regular employment. Yet, many of them have skills, creativity, and a strong desire to support their families.

The idea grew through conversations with parents, our dear volunteer Saleena, and the team. Hameeda and Jikkysha, mothers supported by Pallium India, have already begun taking small individual orders and are gradually expanding their work. They have also been encouraging other parents who are interested in exploring similar opportunities.

Both of them expressed their willingness to share their stories if it could inspire others. Jikkysha was excited about the possibilities of the women working together as a team. Our volunteer, Saleena, supported this idea and suggested inviting parents in the group who might be interested in participating.

Although the meeting had to be postponed several times due to caregiving responsibilities, it also highlighted how much of the care work is carried by mothers, often leaving them with very little time or flexibility to step away. It was finally held on 9th March with the support of the team, especially Dr. Sangeetha, Children’s Palliative Care Physician, whose guidance was instrumental in initiating this effort. Sr. Lekshmi, who has been a constant source of support, also contributed by identifying parents who could benefit from the support group meeting, though she was unable to attend.

When the invitations were sent, initially only a few mothers responded, and I was unsure how the meeting would unfold. But on the day, mothers and volunteers gathered.

As the session unfolded, the women began sharing their stories about caregiving, financial struggles, and the small efforts they had made to earn an income through activities such as stitching, baking, and craft work. As the discussion continued, it gradually became a space of encouragement and connection.

Listening to each other’s journeys helped them realise they were not alone, offering both connection and reassurance. Hearing from those who had already started small livelihood initiatives encouraged others to feel more confident about exploring similar efforts within their own capacity. Several participants also expressed their willingness to be part of future Rithu initiatives, especially if opportunities could be developed collectively.

Community Social Officer, Gokul, supported parents throughout the session, especially those who attended with their children. He assisted them in settling comfortably, ensuring that parents could participate in the discussion without worry. Social Work Intern, Devi, assisted in documenting the discussions and experiences shared. The presence of volunteers also helped create a warm and supportive environment.

By the end of the meeting, a collective idea emerged to form a Rithu Parents Livelihood Support Group. This would be named the Rithu Business Group, where caregivers can stay connected, share ideas, and explore income-generating opportunities together.

A few parents who could not attend due to emergencies later reached out, expressing their willingness to join future sessions and their hope that such meetings would continue.

The most meaningful part of the meeting was not just the ideas discussed, but the space it created. The women were able to speak openly, listen to one another, and experience a sense of relief and connection. This meeting was also a powerful reminder of the strength these families carry. Despite ongoing challenges that are often difficult to imagine, they continue to move forward with courage, strength, and love. In many ways, they are the true champions quietly moving through different stages of life, facing each one with resilience

Like the seasons that Rithu represents, their journeys remind us that even in the most difficult moments, change and hope continue to exist.

---

---