May 20, 2006

I just got back from hospital.

Today was 'Operation #12' of the CHD Project sponsored by the Dr.Mani Children Heart Foundation - the accomplishment fired by a hope and a dream around 6 years back. (See details in this report - click here to download)

The little 5-year old girl, born with a hole in her heart, is now recovering nicely in Intensive care. Her family could not afford to pay for the expensive operation - but some wonderful folks across the globe did.

Yesterday, for five hours, I visited several surgical supply stores - and told the owners a story about the way the CHD Project was conceived and has grown. To my astonishment and delight, every one of them instantly slashed the prices on costly consumables, letting us buy them at cost-price!

When you understand how the usual markup is between 25% and 250%, you'll see how big a favor this is. As I staggered home, bone-weary but happy, and totted up the figures, I was floored to see that this simple effort has lowered our budget for disposable items by 33%

That's a saving of almost 10% on the cost of the entire operation!

Personally, I hate bargain-hunting - have always thought it a waste of my time. But when it comes to handling funds contributed by generous donors and ensure it has the biggest impact, I'm willing to do anything.

And looking back, I'm glad about investing the 5 hours yesterday - because over the coming years, we'll be able to fund many more operations simply by lowering our costs!

Are YOU making your best effort to maximize your impact by lowering (or controlling and effectively managing) your costs?

Are YOU willing to go out of your comfort zone and do things you wouldn't normally think of doing, because of your passion for what you do?

Are YOU making progress - and feeling happy about where you're heading?

I urge you to try it. It's a nice feeling :)

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