>> Sonam Choki with her mother

Sonam Choki had sustained severe head injuries and lost all consciousness for 13 days after the 12-feet fall on July 25. She was immediately rushed to the local basic health unit and subsequently referred to the Thimphu Hospital.

“She was in a very critical condition when she was brought here. The urgent computer graphic of the head showed several multiple skull fractures but fortunately no internal bleeding,” said Pediatric Surgeon, Dr. Johannes Meixner.

Sonam Choki regained consciousness on August 8 and was breast fed the same day. All supportive feeding and IV lines were removed and two days later she recognized her mother and greeted her with a smile.

According to Dr. Johannes, it was the excellent and highly qualified teamwork of the staff from the emergency and intensive care unit that the girl’s life was saved. “She was undoubtedly at the verge of death. I sincerely appreciate the highly professional and effective teamwork.”

The accident took place when her father was engrossed in cleaning the adjacent room and her mother was on duty in Gaselo Middle Secondary School. Sonam Choki had, therefore, climbed the bed which gave her access to the window and a light step on the fragile bar caused the tragic fall.

Yeshi Om, 25, is overwhelmed with the recovery of her daughter but her only concern is whether Sonam Choki can lead a normal life now. “I have my deep appreciation to all the doctors and supporting staff as a token of gratitude for resurrecting my baby,” said Yeshi Om with tears in her eyes.

The doctors said that the child will recover within six to eight months and will most probably lead a normal life.