18-year-old Smitha Enters Motherhood

On May 4, social workers Supriya and Shilpa visited survivor Smitha (rescued July 14, 2022). After turning 18 years old, Smitha left the shelter home to live with her mother. While working at a beauty parlor, Smitha secretly reconnected with her childhood sweetheart. On November 11, 2025, the two eloped and began living together away from their families. At the time, Smitha was 4 months pregnant. On April 19, 2026, she gave birth to a baby boy.

Supriya and Shilpa met Smitha at a hospital in Pune, where she and her baby had been admitted after doctors suspected a possible reactivated STD infection. They recommended that Smitha undergo a VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) test. The doctors also suggested a bone marrow aspiration test for her baby to check for any possible infection. Thankfully, the tests came back clear, and both Smitha and her three-week-old son are doing well.

The social workers gifted Smitha a bag of goodies for both her and the baby, including a sweater, moisturizer, fruits, and baby clothes.

Our team will continue to follow up with Smitha to ensure she feels supported and to empower her to make good decisions for her future.