“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” – Desmond Tutu
Living with a chronic illness is not just a battle of the body but also a constant emotional struggle. For many children, it means an existence shaped by medical appointments, procedures, and long days confined to hospital beds. Their world narrows to treatments and restrictions, leaving little room for the simple joys of childhood—exploring, playing, and connecting with friends. These children, whose days should be filled with discovery and laughter, instead navigate a reality of limitations. Their condition too often defines not only what they can do but also how they see themselves and their future.
At Golden Butterflies Children’s Palliative Care Foundation, we believe that every child, regardless of their medical condition, deserves to experience the full joys of childhood. This belief led to the creation of Adi Dhool, an event designed to give children with chronic illnesses a day filled with fun, independence, and personal growth. Adi Dhool provides them with a rare opportunity to step outside the boundaries of their conditions and experience the joys of childhood without limitations. Every child is celebrated for their resilience, hope, and potential, helping them reclaim their childhood and renew their sense of possibility.
Now in its third edition, Adi Dhool continues to evolve based on feedback from previous years. We’ve extended the event’s duration, added more games, and introduced activities that cater to different age groups, making the experience more meaningful and inclusive. These adjustments, alongside improvements in event management, ensure that each child can laugh, play, and interact in new, enriching ways.
At Adi Dhool, every activity is designed to be inclusive, fun, and empowering. This year, the most popular attractions included pottery and caricature stalls, providing creative outlets for the children. The event also featured a special magic show performed by children from Kerala. Watching these children come together to create an unforgettable performance was both overwhelming and inspiring. One of the most cherished highlights remains the ramp walk, where children proudly take centre stage, strutting down the runway cheered on by their families, friends, and fellow participants. Led by passionate volunteers, this activity instills confidence and gives the children a sense of self-worth that transcends their daily struggles, making it a truly empowering experience.
Adi Dhool is not only for the children but for their entire families—siblings, parents, and caregivers. Caring for a child with a chronic illness is emotionally and physically taxing, so we created a space where families can enjoy themselves together. Parents are appreciated for their courage, and siblings are given a day where they, too, feel included and supported.
To ensure every child enjoys the event without any financial barriers, each participant receives ₹500 worth of coupons for games and activities. This guarantees that no child goes home empty-handed, leaving with both smiles and prizes.
The spirit of collaboration and inclusivity is at the heart of Adi Dhool. One of our child patients, Jeevitha, proudly showcased her handmade products at her stall, demonstrating her creativity and determination to embrace life beyond her illness. Two caregivers also set up stalls, offering products that reflect their resilience and journey. The event saw participation from various NGOs, coming together to support one another’s causes. In a powerful demonstration of community, Adi Dhool highlights the importance of collaborating to ensure that every child and family facing chronic illness feels supported and empowered.
Our event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, many of whom are students from various colleges. For them, volunteering is not just about giving back; it’s a chance to connect deeply with the children and their families. Through these interactions, volunteers don’t just help for a day—they become part of the Golden Butterflies family, often continuing to volunteer long-term and committing to the cause.
At Adi Dhool, we believe healing takes many forms, and joy is one of the most powerful. By creating a space where children with chronic illnesses can experience the simple pleasures of play, we offer more than just a fun day—we offer them a glimpse of life’s possibilities. Every game, every laugh, and every shared moment helps these children see beyond their illness and toward a brighter, more hopeful future.
The success of Adi Dhool is made possible by the unwavering support of our community. Volunteers, sponsors, and partners come together to create an inclusive, safe, and joyful environment. The event stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we unite to uplift one another. The impact of this day extends far beyond the event itself, empowering children and families with the love and support they deserve.
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