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Gaurab GarumNepalese boy with third arm on his back
Country:
 Nepal |
Content:
- Gaurab Garum: The Nepalese Boy with a Third Arm
- Dilemma: To Remove or Not to Remove
- Cultural Beliefs and Medical Negligence
- Medical Examination
- Risks of Surgery
- Family Struggles
Gaurab Garum: The Nepalese Boy with a Third Arm
Birth and Early LifeGaurab Garum was born in a remote village in Nepal with an unusual condition: a third arm growing from the gap in his spine. This additional limb, the result of an incompletely formed twin, was seen as a divine gift by his community. However, it also presented a serious medical concern.
Dilemma: To Remove or Not to Remove
As Gaurab grew, so did his third arm. His parents, Kalpena and Ashish, faced a difficult decision: whether or not to surgically remove it. They were aware that the operation could leave him paralyzed, but leaving it untreated could also have dire consequences.
Cultural Beliefs and Medical Negligence
The family's dilemma was compounded by their deep religious beliefs. Spiritual shamans advised them against seeking medical help, claiming that the third arm was a divine gift. Financial constraints and a lack of awareness about modern medicine further hindered their access to proper care.
Medical Examination
Eventually, Gaurab's parents sought a medical opinion. They traveled to Kathmandu, where he underwent a scan at the Grande International Hospital. The hospital's orthopedic surgeon, Chakra Raj Pandey, identified the severity of the condition within Gaurab's spine.
Risks of Surgery
Dr. Pandey explained that while the third arm itself was not a problem, the impact on Gaurab's spine was concerning. Leaving it untreated could lead to neurological issues and eventual paralysis, though he could not guarantee this outcome. The surgery to remove the arm also carried the risk of spinal cord damage and paralysis.
Family Struggles
Faced with these risks, Ashish and Kalpena struggled to make a decision. They turned to their extended family, including Gaurab's grandmother, to weigh different options. As Gaurab's condition continued to evolve, his parents grappled with the complex interplay between religious beliefs, medical reality, and their hopes for their son's future.
