Stand-up comedian and entertainer Munawar Faruqui recently opened up about a challenging part of his life that tested his resilience as a father. During a podcast with Janice Sequeira, Munawar spoke about the time his son was diagnosed with Kawasaki disease.
Munawar’s struggle with finance
Munawar recalled how he initially struggled to cope with the financial and emotional weight of the situation. “I needed Rs 75,000 but had only Rs 700-800 in my wallet,” he revealed, explaining the high cost of treatment. His son’s recovery depended on three injections, each priced at Rs 25,000.
Reflecting on that moment, Munawar shared, “That situation scares me. My son was one and a half years old back then. He fell ill, and for 2-3 days, his condition didn’t improve. After taking him to the hospital, we discovered he had Kawasaki disease.”
Despite being financially unprepared, Munawar put on a brave face in front of the doctor. “I smiled casually at the doctor, assuring him I’d arrange the money. But as I stepped out, I froze for 30-40 minutes, unable to think. It was the heaviest moment of my life,” he said, describing the overwhelming emotions he faced. He added how he managed to arrange money from the place he previously worked at.
What is Kawasaki disease?
Kawasaki disease is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects children under the age of 5. It causes inflammation in the walls of blood vessels throughout the body, including the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. Early diagnosis of the condition can help avoid complications later.
What are the causes of Kawasaki disease?
The exact cause of Kawasaki disease remains unknown, but researchers believe it may be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain viral or bacterial infections may play a role in triggering the disease. Some children may have a genetic predisposition, making them more vulnerable to the condition.
Kawasaki disease is thought to result from an abnormal immune system response, leading to widespread inflammation. The condition is not contagious and cannot spread from one child to another.
X (Twitter)
What are the symptoms of Kawasaki disease?
Kawasaki disease often develops in two phases and can last for several weeks. The primary symptoms include:
High fever lasting more than five days.
Red eyes without discharge.
Rash on the body, often prominent in the chest and groin area.
Swollen hands and feet, sometimes accompanied by redness.
Red, cracked lips and a swollen, red tongue (commonly referred to as “strawberry tongue”).
Swollen lymph nodes, typically on one side of the neck.
When to see a doctor?
If your child develops a persistent fever lasting more than five days, followed by symptoms such as rash, red eyes, swollen hands or feet, or changes in their lips and tongue, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
