In a heartwarming and unconventional turn of events, the resilience of an 11-month-old baby named Zikra Malik has captured the hearts of many. Zikra’s journey to recovery, accompanied by her beloved doll Pari, has left a lasting impression on those who witnessed this unique bond.
The story unfolds at Delhi’s Lok Nayak Hospital, where Zikra found herself on a bed, tethered to traction rods, alongside her cherished doll, Pari. Both Zikra and her doll had their legs fastened to these medical devices, an unusual sight that drew the curiosity of many.
The ordeal began when, on August 17, Zikra suffered a leg fracture after falling from her bed. Her family rushed her to the hospital, where doctors recommended gallows traction, a standard procedure for treating thigh bone fractures in children under two years old. However, Zikra adamantly refused treatment, presenting a challenging situation for her concerned parents.
Faced with their daughter’s refusal, Zikra’s parents devised a creative solution born out of love for their child. They decided to introduce Zikra’s beloved companion, Pari, to the hospital room, hoping that the doll’s presence would comfort and encourage their little one to undergo the necessary treatment.
Zikra’s mother, Fareen, shared their innovative approach: “Even at home, she is always moving from one place to another, and it’s impossible to make her sit down for five minutes. On the first day at the hospital, she wasn’t ready to lie down on the bed. She kept moving, and doctors asked us to keep her legs straight for proper alignment. Then I asked my husband to get her favorite doll to the hospital. We just thought of putting Pari in the same position as Zikra – and it worked.”
The transformation in Zikra’s demeanor was nothing short of remarkable. Upon seeing her cherished Pari by her side, she instantly perked up and embraced her doll. Doctors, recognizing the unique bond between Zikra and Pari, decided to first “treat” the doll. They proceeded to plaster Pari’s legs, a symbolic gesture that ultimately convinced Zikra to receive the much-needed medical attention.
Now, at bed number 16 in the orthopedic ward, Zikra and Pari rest together, united by their shared journey of healing. Their extraordinary friendship has become a heartwarming topic of conversation within the hospital’s walls. Zikra is affectionately known as the “gudiya waali bachi” or “the girl with the doll” among the hospital staff.
The resilience and creative problem-solving displayed by Zikra’s parents, combined with the unwavering support of her beloved Pari, have resulted in a heartening tale of healing and strength. Zikra is expected to make a full recovery in the coming week, leaving everyone touched by this story inspired by the enduring power of love and the unique bonds that bring comfort in times of adversity.
