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Triumphs of Hope and Recovery

Stories of strength, resilience, and the journey toward a healthier, happier life.

A Fight for Dignity in Transit: Kevin’s Battle for the Right to Return Home

Kevin Chenais, a young man from France suffering from severe obesity caused by a rare hormonal disorder, became internationally known when airlines and transportation companies refused to accommodate him during his journey home from the United States. After spending years in Chicago for medical treatment, Kevin and his family faced a series of travel denials due to his weight and medical equipment, leaving them stranded and exhausted.

His situation sparked global debate about accessibility, dignity, and the rights of medically fragile individuals to travel safely. Eventually, after public pressure and media coverage, alternative arrangements were made, allowing Kevin to return home to France.

His story highlights a critical issue: people with severe medical conditions deserve compassion, proper support, and systems that understand their unique needs—so no family should ever have to struggle simply to return home.

Centre for Obesity & Digestive Support

A Global Battle Against Obesity: Eman’s Story of Courage and Care

Eman Ahmed, once known as the world’s heaviest woman, became a global symbol of the struggle against severe, life-threatening obesity. Born in Egypt, Eman suffered from a rare genetic condition that caused rapid weight gain, immobility, and years of confinement to her bed. Her family sought help worldwide, eventually bringing her to India for treatment under renowned bariatric surgeon Dr. Muffazal “Dr. Muffi” Lakdawala.

A complex, high-risk medical plan was created to stabilize her, reduce her weight, and restore basic mobility. Through intensive care, dedicated nursing, and multiple interventions, Eman showed remarkable early progress, shedding significant weight and regaining some movement.

Her journey sparked international conversations about obesity as a medical disease, patient dignity, and the challenges of treating extreme cases. Though her life was filled with medical struggles, Eman’s story remains a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the global effort required to treat severe obesity compassionately.

Centre for Obesity & Digestive Support

From Viral Moment to Victory: Jogawat’s Inspiring Health Comeback

Inspector Daulatram Jogawat once weighed nearly 180 kg, struggling with mobility and health while continuing his police duties with commitment. When his photo went viral online, the moment could have crushed his confidence — but it became the start of a powerful turnaround.

Bariatric surgeon Dr. Muffazal Lakdawala stepped in and offered Jogawat free surgery, giving him the chance to reclaim his health. Within a year, he dropped 65 kg, reaching 115 kg, backed by discipline, routine, and determination. Today, Jogawat uses his journey to spread a clear message: obesity is a medical condition, not a weakness. He encourages support, compassion, and access to treatment for those who need it.

Centre for Obesity & Digestive Support

Across Borders for Hope: A Young Girl’s Journey to Healing

A young girl from Afghanistan arrived in India carrying a condition her home country’s medical system couldn’t treat. Weak, anxious, and in constant discomfort, she and her family made the brave decision to travel across borders in search of hope. That hope came in the form of Dr. Muffazal “Dr. Muffi” Lakdawala and his compassionate medical team. After thorough evaluation, she underwent specialized treatment that marked the beginning of her recovery. In just days, her strength improved, her pain eased, and her smile slowly returned. The hospital staff supported her like family, ensuring she felt safe, cared for, and understood through every step.

Her journey reflects more than a medical success — it’s a reminder that courage, timely care, and compassion can change the course of a child’s life. She returned home stronger, healthier, and filled with new possibilities.

Centre for Obesity & Digestive Support

Where Compassion Meets Capability: Inclusive Care for Every Body

Dr. Muffazal “Dr. Muffi” Lakdawala’s commitment to differently-abled support is clear and powerful. In the featured image, a patient in a wheelchair is gently guided by a compassionate caregiver — a vivid reminder of Dr. Muffi’s inclusive philosophy. At his Digestive Health Institute (DHI), his team doesn’t just perform bariatric surgery; they also offer holistic rehabilitation that supports people with limited mobility.

Beyond surgery, his clinic integrates physiotherapy, nutritional counseling, and mental health care — tailoring treatment for patients who face physical challenges. His decades of experience and globally recognized expertise (such as multiple bariatric procedures) ensure that differentiated care isn’t just a promise, but a lived experience. Under Dr. Muffi’s leadership, every patient, regardless of ability, is treated with dignity, respect, and hope.

Centre for Obesity & Digestive Support

The Constable Who Fought Back: Rupali’s Powerful Return to Strength

Rupali Kadam, a 30-year-old police constable stationed at Borivli, mustered extraordinary courage to reclaim her life. Battling severe obesity — at one point weighing 132 kg with a BMI of 47.5 — she had long endured cruel taunts from passersby. Her health was under strain with hypertension, hypothyroidism, and swelling in her legs.

After seeing a new obesity clinic run by Dr. Muffazal “Dr. Muffi” Lakdawala, she opted for a banded Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, subsidized by Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital. Despite her limited finances, she paid only ₹ 50,000, far less than the real cost of the surgery. Now recovering, Rupali says the operation gives her a “second chance” — not just for weight loss, but to be a more effective police officer, fully capable and confident in her demanding role.

Centre for Obesity & Digestive Support

Fellowship

The fellowship programme under Dr Muffazal Lakdawala is a prestigious and intensive training opportunity designed to develop highly skilled, ethical, and compassionate surgeons. It provides hands-on exposure to advanced minimally invasive and bariatric procedures, real-time mentorship, and clinical excellence. Fellows acquire in-depth practical knowledge, leadership skills, and patient-centred values, enabling them to deliver world-class care and transform lives within their communities.

Internship

The CODS internship programme is a transformative learning journey designed to empower young medical professionals with real-world clinical exposure and hands-on experience. It emphasises skill development, patient care, teamwork, and ethical practice under expert guidance. Interns build confidence through active participation in medical procedures, community outreach, and health initiatives, preparing them to serve with compassion, precision, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Where Compassion Meets Care.

Delivering accessible and affordable healthcare to India’s underserved communities.

Contact

Phone

+91 91369 04499

Email

info@codsfoundation.org

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