NE HEALTH BUREAU
CHENNAI, APR 7
With World Health Day this month, Ketto reflects on its success stories, highlighting how crowdfunding has transformed lives. In a heartwarming display of generosity and collective action, Ketto.org has once again proven the transformative power of digital crowdfunding. The story of Arsh Shaha, a 9-month-old child suffering from Biliary atresia, stands as a testament to how communities can come together to save lives.
Arsh began showing symptoms of biliary atresia, a rare and serious liver condition that affects infants, when he was just two months old. Despite undergoing surgery at four months, his health continued to deteriorate. He spent extended periods on a ventilator and urgently required a liver transplant to survive.
- Though he will remain on life-long medication and monthly check-ups, his future is bright—made possible by the kindness of strangers
- Ketto.org, co-founded by actor Kunal Kapoor, Varun Sheth, and Zaheer Adenwala, has been a pioneer in medical crowdfunding for over twelve years, helping millions access life-saving treatments
- Ketto continues to empower families facing medical crises, showing that with hope, compassion, and community, despair can turn into survival
By then, Arsh’s family had already spent ₹15 lakhs on his treatment. With the transplant estimated to cost another ₹22 lakhs, his parents were left with no choice but to mortgage their shop to continue his care. Arsh’s mother stepped forward to donate a portion of her liver—but the financial burden was overwhelming. With no assets left and nowhere else to turn, they turned to crowdfunding.
The family found hope on Ketto.org, one of India’s crowdfunding platforms. What followed was a wave of compassion—thousands of generous donors came together to raise the amount needed for Arsh’s transplant. Thanks to their support, Arsh underwent a successful liver transplant.
Today, Arsh is a thriving two-year-old. After months of recovery and follow-up care, he’s now living a happy and active childhood. He’s started speaking his first words, plays around the house with ease, and brings joy to everyone around him. Though he will remain on life-long medication and monthly check-ups, his future is bright—made possible by the kindness of strangers.
Ketto.org, co-founded by actor Kunal Kapoor, Varun Sheth, and Zaheer Adenwala, has been a pioneer in medical crowdfunding for over twelve years, helping millions access life-saving treatments.
Reflecting on Arsh’s story, Varun Sheth, Co-founder and CEO of Ketto, shared:
“We are dedicated to making healthcare accessible to those in need, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of treatment. Arsh’s journey is a testament to the power of community—when people come together, lives are transformed.”
Ketto continues to empower families facing medical crises, showing that with hope, compassion, and community, despair can turn into survival.
