By Sunita Menon, Gulf News
 
Dubai, Aug 10: There has been an overwhelming response from good Samaritans wanting to contribute in cash and kind towards the repatriation of a terminally ill 40-year-old Indian.

Rajjaya's story was published in Gulf News on Wednesday. He came to the UAE six months ago on a visit visa and was looking for work.

Three weeks ago he went to Al Kuwaiti hospital complaining of severe stomach ache. He did not know he was suffering from gastric cancer. Diagnosis showed that the disease had advanced into the last stages.

He underwent three surgeries, and the hospital waived the charges on humanitarian grounds. But he did not have the means to go home.

"We also got someone who is willing to sponsor his air ticket. It was our main concern. Then there were also those who wanted to donate cash to his family," said C.P Mathew, a volunteer from the Dubai-based Indian organisation Snehathazvara, who took up his case.

"I am not afraid any more. My children will be with me when the end comes. I am thankful to all those good people in Dubai who helped me out in my hour of need," Rajjaya told Gulf News.

"The report in Gulf News also led many to call up the Indian consulate," said B.S. Mubarak, the Indian labour consul.

"There was an individual who wanted to sponsor Rajjaya's children's education. That was very generous indeed."

Rajjaya was scheduled to fly back last night to his wife and children in Hyderabad.