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Meet Hari

Kochi, India

Harikrishnan “Hari” AM, a young man from India, was not a good candidate for heart surgery because of the complexity of his heart condition. His heart kept him from going to high school and having the energy for outside activities. Hari found his passion in electronics and 3D printing  – hobbies with limited physical energy exerted that kept him inside.

Eventually, he met Dr. Mahesh Kappanayil, a cardiologist at Children’s HeartLink Center of Excellence Amrita Hospital, Kochi. The team at Amrita Hospital was trained by our medical volunteers and created opportunities for advancements in pediatric cardiology and surgery.

One of those advancements was the use of 3D technologies. Dr. Mahesh and his team used 3D printing to create a model of Hari’s heart!

It was the first time the hospital ever used this technology to map a patient’s heart. Using that 3D model, a cardiac team could see what areas of Hari’s heart needed fixing and could plan a surgery to make the corrections. Hari underwent surgery successfully!

“My heart defect didn’t allow me to enjoy a full childhood. After heart surgery, I feel different not only physically but also emotionally. I would like to share my story, my experience, my passion for technology and my voice to help other children and young adults enjoy their lives and fulfill their potential.”
Hari
Dr. Mahesh and Hari, 2022

Dr. Mahesh and Hari bonded over their shared interest in 3D printing. Today, Hari is a university student partnering with Dr. Mahesh to build 3D models of hearts for other children with congenital heart disease. “My heartfelt belief is that he will make great contributions to advancements in medicine,” says Dr. Mahesh about Hari.

Imagine the future technology that Dr. Mahesh and Hari may discover together!

Pictured: Dr. Mahesh and Hari in 2022.