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DHAKA, May 08, 2026 (BSS) - Nasrin Nowroz Swapna is a shining example of how the life of an ordinary housewife can be an extraordinary story of struggling and courageous woman. 

With a small family with three daughters, a fairly comfortable life thanks to her husband's income, all of these days were spent happily. They used to live in Mohammadpur area of the capital. 

But the COVID-19 pandemic completely changed their lives. A new struggle had begun as it was known suddenly that Swapna's husband diagnosed with cancer in his tongue. 

The doctors informed that one-third of his tongue will have to cut. The cost of treatment will be nearly Taka 15 to 20 lakh. Such news is scary for any family. But for this family with limited income, it was an almost impossible challenge. 

Swapna said that at that moment, she felt like everything had stopped. There was no answer form where so much money would come from, how the treatment would be provided.

She sought help to relatives, friends, and even office colleagues. She had to spend all her savings and sell jewellery. She also took some financial assistance from the office.
 
Another big worry of the family at that time was the future of her three children. The eldest daughter was preparing for SSC exam, and the two others were studying in the sixth grade. It was difficult to maintain them in such a critical moment. 

Swapna said that due to COVID-19, she had to leave the children at her sister's house and admit her husband to the hospital. It was terribly a difficult time.

Even after returning home with her husband after a long treatment, the situation did not get easier. On the contrary, a new reality came to the fore. Her husband could no longer speak as before, and his ability to work was limited. The entire responsibility of the family fell on Swapna. 

After that she made the most important decision in her life- to take her hobby of cooking as a profession. 

According to Swapna, she did it with patience and hard work. From hobby, she would occasionally cook for her own pleasure, but now it became her only source of income. Swapna started selling food online. The beginning was not easy- sometimes orders came, sometimes not. But, she did not give up.

Meanwhile, the elder daughter started tutoring along with her studies. The two younger daughters are also trying to stay focused on their studies. Everyone in the family seems to be fighting for their survival.  

In the meantime, Swapna started participating in various food fairs. But she was not getting much benefit from that either.
 
“I had the future of my three children and the responsibility of treating of my sick husband,” she said.

Suddenly, a big opportunity came to her. Well-wishers-Tanjina Nahid, Nasrin Sikder, Hena and Irene stood by Swapna. They gave her the opportunity to run a cafe. They were given the opportunity to use a room, kitchen and washroom inside an outlet in Dhanmondi area. They also helped her at every stage ranging from procuring necessary items to promoting and publicity.

Swapna had no capital at that time. She did not even have the courage to open a cafe. But the trust of others gave her new confidence. 

Taking advantage of this opportunity, Swapna slowly started to build her own position. She now regularly supplies various dishes. Her income now supports the family, her children's education, and her husband's treatment. 

Her eldest daughter is now studying in the Food and Nutrition Department at Home Economics College- following her mother's footsteps. The two younger daughters are also preparing for the SSC exams.

“Swapna's life teaches us an important lesson- no matter how big the crisis, if you don't give up, the path will open one day. Her story is not only about personal struggle, but also a unique example of courage, perseverance and humanitarian support,” said Tanjina Nahid. 

Irene said, “With hard work and patience, she has made life meaningful like her name. Therefore, Swapna's story of moving forward is not only inspiring, but also highlights the humane side of our society. 

In difficult times, the sincere help of some people can change the fate of a family. At the same time, it proves that women, if given the opportunity, can pull not only themselves, but the entire family together. People like Swapna teach us that no matter how difficult life is, with effort and patience, it is possible to create a new path, Swapna said.