About us
Who We Are
Umeedein is a registered non-profit and non-governmental organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children battling cancer. Since our inception, our mission has been to ensure that no child is left behind in the fight against cancer, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. Our name, which translates to “Hope,” embodies our core philosophy: we are here to offer hope, comfort, and the chance for a healthier future to children and their families.
Over the years, Umeedein has played a pivotal role in providing comprehensive support to childhood cancer patients. With a strong focus on ensuring treatment completion, we address the often-overlooked social determinants of health—such as housing, food, and emotional support—that are critical for successful outcomes in paediatric cancer treatment. Our flagship initiative, SEVA HOME, serves as a lifeline for families from remote and disadvantaged areas, offering them free accommodation and meals near AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science) Bhubaneswar, a leading cancer treatment hospital facility in Eastern India.
What We do
Our holistic support system is designed to address the unique challenges faced by underprivileged families during their child’s cancer treatment, ensuring they have access to the care they need to survive and thrive.
How We Measure Success
At Umeedein, we are committed to measuring our impact not only through the number of children served but also by the tangible improvements in treatment adherence and family well-being. Some key metrics include:
- Reduced Treatment Abandonment: At AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s Pediatric Hematology Oncology division, the rate of treatment abandonment has dropped dramatically—from 28% in 2018 to 6.2% in 2023. This reduction directly correlates with the support provided by Umeedein through SEVA HOME and our patient navigation services.
- Children and Families Supported: We have provided comprehensive support to 173 children and their families since 2020, ensuring they have access to safe housing, nutritious meals, and emotional support during their treatment. Out of these, 37 children have successfully entered survivorship, marking a major milestone in their recovery journey.
- Capacity Expansion at SEVA HOME: SEVA HOME currently accommodates 30 children and their families at any given time, offering free lodging and meals to around 60 individuals on a daily basis. We maintain the flexibility to expand our capacity during emergencies, ensuring that no child in need is turned away.
- Partnerships and Collaborations: Our collaboration with AIIMS Bhubaneswar, JPW, and the Azim Premji Foundation has enabled us to strengthen our support services. Additionally, through our partnership with Navya, a digital platform linked with Tata Memorial Hospital, we have facilitated free second-opinion consultations for children needing specialized care, giving families the confidence to pursue the most appropriate treatment options.
- Community Engagement: Through our grassroots initiatives like the Cancer ambassador Program, we have established a robust patient referral and support network across rural Odisha. Currently, two ambassadors are working in Bargarh and Nuapada districts, identifying and referring childhood cancer cases early, thus improving the chances of successful treatment. This network is instrumental in minimizing delays in diagnosis and reducing dropouts during treatment.
Recognition and Awards:
Umeedein has been recognized for its impact and innovation in cancer care. We were honored with the Times Icons of Odisha 2024 award recognizing our excellence in healthcare support services.
Looking Forward
Our vision for the future is clear: to ensure that every child, regardless of their socio-economic status, has the opportunity to fight and survive cancer. As we continue to grow, we are keen to collaborate with organizations, institutions, and individuals who share our commitment to making healthcare accessible to all. Whether through financial support, healthcare expertise, or community outreach, there are many ways to join hands with Umeedein and create a world where no child dies because they couldn’t access the treatment they needed.
Together, we can transform childhood cancer care and give families the hope they need to face tomorrow.
Our Partners
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