Hearts Behind the Foundation: The Heart Whisperer
October 15, 2024 | Contributed by Divyanka Vig Khanna
My association with Genesis Foundation began in 2024. I feel so blessed to be a part of such noble work that looks only at child heart treatment. An opportunity to create meaningful change in the world. Stepping into the lives of individuals and community and giving them the best you can. I am grateful that through this field I have the power to uplift those who are struggling or are in need, in ways either by giving my heart and soul to the project or to create avenues for donation to charity that I am involved with. My first visit to the hospital to see a 5 month old baby in terrible pain, but a smile on her face left me with a flood of emotions through my mind.
Since my school days I have been inclined towards helping others and most importantly giving back to society. I had participated in different social events but never ever had given a thought of taking this on as a career. My story of being a social worker was not meant to be, but yes destiny always pans out the way it’s supposed to. From aspiring to be a cabin crew to an experienced social worker, that’s how destiny was written for me. Working for children had always been my passion, the passion which turned into a profession for me, now helping child heart treatment for the lesser privileged in our country.
The journey of being a shy girl from being a bold girl who still aspires to hold a PHD degree sometime soon. Social work seems to be a word that many people are not aware of, what it is all about, the responsibilities and pressure which comes with this. One evening, while volunteering at my previous workplace, I met a lady, she was a source of hope for many, helping children regain their life and doing better for them. Her unwavering commitment to those in need inspired me. I saw how she connected with the children. That was the moment, I realized I wanted to be the guiding light for others and one story which I won’t ever forget is my father was returning from his work, when he met with an accident. I don’t know the person who called the ambulance on time and called us to inform about the incident on time, I still pray silently every-time for him that just because of him my father got treated on time. The hidden blessings, the gratitude you get just through compassion, is so amazing. And this field definitely requires leaps and bounds of compassion.
As I pursued my education, I took on internships that allowed me to work with children in foster care, in need of care and protection. I started my career in a childcare institution, few months were overwhelming. I encountered stories of trauma and hardship the children have been facing at such a tender age. Today I am proud to be a social worker, each day brings new challenges, but I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves support and a chance to thrive. My journey has taught me that while the road may be tough, the rewards and blessings are immeasurable. I chose this path not just to help others but to be a part of the movement towards the compassion I have. My journey at Genesis Foundation has just begun, the path remains the same where the core focus is children. Managing the Northern region of the country enables me to ensure we foster strong relationships with hospital partners and are able to treat as many children as possible with a heart defect all whilst maximizing donation to charity – charities like Genesis Foundation.