New Delhi, India – For Annick Dohoroo, a 38-year-old mother from Mauritius, the hope of walking again rests on a complex medical journey and a desperate plea for financial assistance. After being told by doctors in her home country that her condition was untreatable, Dohoroo has found a glimmer of possibility in India, where surgeons believe they can help her regain mobility. Her story highlights the challenges faced by patients seeking specialized medical care and the financial burdens that can accompany such pursuits.
Dohoroo’s ordeal began in August 2024, when she developed neurological functional disorders that left her unable to walk. According to reports, medical professionals in Mauritius initially determined that surgical intervention wasn’t necessary and that she would likely remain bedridden. However, her family refused to accept this prognosis and sought second opinions abroad. This led them to surgeons in India, who offered a different outlook – and a potential path toward recovery.
A Diagnosis of Myelopathy and the Promise of Baclofen
Currently hospitalized at Marengo Asia Hospital in India, Dohoroo is receiving treatment for what has been diagnosed as myélopathie non compressive, a condition causing severe spinal cord spasticity, leading to pain and affecting both upper and lower limbs. The condition, as explained by medical professionals, causes significant muscle stiffness and can severely limit movement.
A turning point came with the administration of baclofen, a muscle relaxant that acts on the central nervous system. Dohoroo experienced a remarkable response, taking her first steps in months on March 19, 2025. “I was able to walk for the first time in so long. Since August, I hadn’t been able to sit up. It was an extraordinary moment; I have no words to express what I feel,” she shared from the hospital, as reported by Le Mauricien. Le Mauricien
The positive reaction to baclofen, which slowly acts on the spinal cord, confirmed the diagnosis and the potential for improvement through surgical intervention. However, this hope comes with a significant financial hurdle.
A Million-Rupie Challenge
To undergo the necessary surgery, Dohoroo needs to raise over one million Mauritian Rupees (approximately $23,000 USD as of February 28, 2026, based on current exchange rates). This substantial sum presents a major obstacle for Dohoroo and her family. The family has launched an appeal for help to cover the costs of the operation and associated medical expenses.
The situation underscores the financial strain that can accompany seeking specialized medical treatment abroad. While medical tourism is a growing trend, it often requires patients to bear significant out-of-pocket costs, including travel, accommodation, and the procedure itself.
The Fight for Treatment and a Mother’s Hope
Dohoroo’s case has garnered attention in Mauritius, with her family advocating for better care within the Mauritian healthcare system. They express frustration that local doctors initially deemed her condition untreatable, while surgeons in India offer a more optimistic prognosis. This discrepancy highlights the challenges patients can face when navigating healthcare systems and the importance of seeking second opinions.
Despite the challenges, Dohoroo remains hopeful. “I keep the hope of walking again one day,” she stated, as reported by L’Express. This unwavering spirit, coupled with the potential for medical intervention in India, fuels her determination to regain her mobility and return to a normal life.
Understanding Myelopathy and Baclofen
Myelopathy refers to any neurological disorder affecting the spinal cord. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the location and severity of the damage, but often include weakness, numbness, and difficulty with coordination. In Dohoroo’s case, the myélopathie non compressive is causing severe spasticity, making movement extremely difficult.
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant and antispastic medication used to treat muscle spasticity caused by conditions like multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injuries. It works by blocking nerve impulses in the spinal cord, reducing muscle stiffness and improving movement. While not a cure, baclofen can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with spasticity.
The Role of Medical Tourism
Dohoroo’s story is emblematic of the growing trend of medical tourism, where individuals travel to other countries to access medical care. India has emerged as a popular destination for medical tourists, offering a range of specialized treatments at relatively lower costs compared to many Western countries.
However, medical tourism also carries risks. Patients may face challenges related to language barriers, differing medical standards, and potential complications arising from travel and unfamiliar environments. It’s crucial for individuals considering medical tourism to thoroughly research their options, choose accredited facilities, and ensure they have adequate travel insurance and follow-up care plans.
The case of Annick Dohoroo serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of access to quality healthcare, the challenges faced by patients with complex medical conditions, and the power of hope in the face of adversity. As she awaits surgery, Dohoroo’s journey continues to inspire and highlight the require for greater awareness and support for individuals seeking medical care beyond their borders.
As of February 28, 2026, Dohoroo remains hospitalized in India awaiting the funds needed for her surgery. Updates on her condition and fundraising efforts can be found through news outlets in Mauritius, such as L’Express. Readers interested in supporting her cause are encouraged to follow these sources for further information.
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