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Mega Health Camp & Basic Life Support Training - A Community Initiative for Better Health & Emergency Preparedness

In a remarkable initiative aimed at enhancing community health and emergency preparedness, Mega Health Camp & Basic Life Support (BLS) Training was organized on Sunday, 16th February 2025, at the Tri-Centenary Hall, Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur. This impactful event was held in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Health Commission (Udupi Diocese), Indian Cancer Society, and other esteemed organizations.

A Grand Inauguration:

The event commenced with a short yet meaningful inaugural ceremony, graced by Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, Vicar General  & Rector of Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur. Following the lighting of the traditional lamp, the church choir’s soulful hymn set the perfect tone for a day dedicated to health and well-being. In his inspiring message, Msgr. Gonsalves applauded the initiative, expressing gratitude to all the partners and sponsors for their unwavering commitment to community service.

Adding further significance to the occasion, Mr. Baptist Dias, President of Rotary Club, Kallianpur, and Panchayat Member, attended as the Guest of Honour. Dr. Ranjeetha Shetty provided insights into the objectives of the Health Camp, particularly emphasizing the Well Women Clinic and the importance of follow-up healthcare services.

Distinguished Presence & Active Participation:

The event saw the active involvement of several eminent personalities, including: Mr. Owen Rodrigues – Convenor, Health Commission Mr. Reginald Lewis – President, Catholic Sabha Mrs. Veena Rodrigues – President, Stree Sanghatan, Milagres Cathedral Sr. Zarina Lobo – Administrator, Goretti Hospital Dr. Edward Lobo – Director, Health Commission, Udupi Diocese Rtn. Dr. Manoj K. Nagasampige – President, Rotary Club, Manipal Town Mr. Brayan Dsouza – Secretary, Rotary Club, Kallianpur

Mrs. Hilda Carnelio, Programme Convenor & Director of Community Service, Rotary Club, Manipal Town, played a key role in coordinating efforts between the organizers, sponsors, and medical teams from MAHE.

Healthcare & Life-Saving Skills for All:

The Health Camp offered free medical screenings, expert consultations, and awareness sessions, empowering the community with knowledge and resources for better health.
Key Activities & Services Offered:
Free Cancer Screening Camp (Conducted by the Department of Community Medicine, KMC, Manipal)
Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening (Women, 30–55 years)
Oral Cancer Screening (Men & Women, 30–55 years)

Total Participants: Approximately 50
Basic Life Support (BLS) Hands-on Training (Conducted by the Department of Emergency Medicine, KMC, Manipal)

CPR Techniques
Recognizing Early Signs of Heart Attacks & Strokes

Managing Choking Emergencies
Expert Trainers: Dr. Prithvishree (Associate Professor, KMC, Manipal) & Dr. Rachana (Assistant Professor, KMC, Manipal)
Screening for Body Composition & Sarcopenia (Conducted by the Centre for Diabetic Foot Care & Research, MCHP, MAHE, Manipal)

A Well-Coordinated Effort:
The event began with Mr. Jeevan Lewis extending a warm welcome to all dignitaries, medical staff, and participants. Dr. Edward Lobo presented fresh roses to the guests as a token of appreciation. The stage program was beautifully compeered by Mrs. Prathibha Braggs, Health Commission, Kallianpur Varado.

In his vote of thanks, Mr. Owen Rodrigues, Convenor of Health Commission, Milagres Cathedral, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, including: Health Commission, Milagres Cathedral Goretti Hospital, Kallianpur Catholic Sabha & Stree Sanghatan, Milagres Cathedral Rotary Club, Manipal Town & Kallianpur Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Indian Cancer Society All expert doctors, volunteers & community leaders

A Step towards a Healthier Community:
This Mega Health Camp & BLS Training successfully provided essential healthcare services and life-saving skills to the community. By focusing on early cancer detection, emergency response training, and general health awareness, this initiative has empowered many, especially economically disadvantaged women, with crucial health knowledge and medical support.

The event’s success highlights the power of collaboration and community-driven healthcare efforts. The overwhelming participation and positive impact reaffirm the need for more such initiatives to ensure better healthcare accessibility and preparedness for all.

Kudos to all the organizers, partners, and volunteers for making this noble mission a grand success!
P. Archibald Furtado.