Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (VM)
Pics by Praveen Tauro
Mangalore, Mar 21: Confidence and gratitude brim from the heart of Fr Ivan Madtha who now has a Myo-electric hand.
It may be recalled that in a major railway accident near Mumbai on August 30, 2005 magician and evangelizer Fr Ivan Madtha of Mangalore diocese had lost his left hand and two fingers of the right hand, following traumatic amputation.
Fr Ivan speaking to Viju of Daijiworld
As he suffered 60 per cent disability, expert doctors suggested he go for an artificial functional hand that would enable him to perform his daily personal as well as pastoral activities. As it was a very expensive proposition, Daijiworld stepped forward to reach out a helping hand by telling the world of his dire need.
“The very fact that Daijiworld stepped forward to help me without my asking them is a noble deed,” said Fr Madtha, with a marked expression of emotions. An article on Fr Madtha on Daijiworld did wonders, much beyond magic.
“Everyday, I would receive hundreds of phone calls and e-mails from India and abroad enquiring after my health. While majority of the financial help came through this channel, those who assured moral and spiritual support kept me going,” expressed Fr Madtha, who had a German-made Myo-electric hand fixed two weeks ago.
“Daijiworld was very much instrumental to project my cause to the notice of the people at large and to get help. I thank Daijiworld and all its personnel for their helping hand. I also take this opportunity to sincerely thank all other organizations that have contributed towards my artificial functional hand,” the grateful priest spoke.
With the support of the artificial functional hand, Fr Madtha can handle much of his activities without depending on others. He gratefully remembers all those who helped him and spiritually and financially.
“I will offer all my pastoral activities for the intentions of all the Daijiworld readers who helped me,” said Fr Madtha adding that his future life would be a challenge for him, thus he would need prayers and support.
The prosthesis (a functional hand) has cost him Rs 7 lac and it has made him self-dependent. Although he could not obtain two Silicon fingers for his right hand, the prosthesis has put him back on track.
According to Fr Madtha, the annual maintenance of the electric hand would be approximately Rs 50,000, which he plans to raise by delivering talks, retreats and evangelization. Further he also has a hope to take up evangelization through magic shows by using assistants.
Along with Fr Madtha, who is now able to return to his pastoral activities and serving people, Daijiworld thanks all the readers who offered a helping hand in this mission.
Watch Video of Fr Ivan Madtha with his Myo-electric hand
From archives - Daijiworld Impact: