Now, just four weeks later, Nilesh hasn't just got his speech back; he even gives the ward nurses a helping hand by doing errands for them! Treatment by the doctors has made this turn-around possible for the boy from Buldhana, and now, he even follows the doctors around on their rounds.

According to Dr Ashok Rathod, professor of paediatrics, Nilesh's condition was complicated due to the presence of tapeworm in his body. Nilesh's family realised that he was not growing normally and was unable to speak despite his age. The child had multiple dismorphic features like an inwardly curving face, an unusually large head, crooked bones and short limbs, Dr Rathod said.

After Nilesh was admitted to JJ, he was put on medication which reduced the swelling inhis head and also destroyed the worm, said Dr Rathod. As a result, Nilesh has gradually been able to speak a few words and sentences, said Dr Rathod. Nilesh is now able to understand people around him and respond to stimuli as well.

The boy's intelligent quotient (IQ) is about 60-70 percent at present, and it is expected to improve with continued medication and training. Nilesh will also be sent to a special school, added the doctor. Nilesh's mother, who was by his side, confirmed that her son had improved a great deal since he was admitted to the hospital.