Constricted to a small cot beside the only window in my hospital room, my mother tossed and turned, trying to stretch her legs and find rest. Despite her petite frame, the cot felt too short, too narrow—but sleep was never really the goal. Ever since I was diagnosed with IGA Nephropathy, she had learned to sleep lightly, always alert to my groans and the beeping of machines. Even on the night of my kidney transplant at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, her only concern was me.

Each morning, my father arrived after an hour-long drive from Philadelphia, having just sent my sister off to school. My mother greeted him with relief, grateful for a moment’s rest. However, after a few short hours, my father would leave again, back into traffic, promising to return with dinner.

My name is Samarth Mehta. I was diagnosed with autoimmune kidney disease at 8, had a stroke at 10, and endured over 2 years of dialysis before finally receiving a lifesaving kidney transplant at CHOP. Through it all, my parents were my unwavering support, sacrificing comfort, sleep, and their wellbeing without hesitation. They gave me more than I can ever repay.

But my story isn’t unique. Every parent of a seriously ill child makes the same sacrifices, often silently. I was one of the lucky ones. My parents had the means to be by my side. Many families aren’t so fortunate.

That’s why I founded Aashray Charities. A nonprofit that helps families with hospitalized children find a private place to rest, recharge, and stay close. Because when we support families, we foster faster recoveries.