Manipal: Kasturba Hospital organizes walkathon to raise awareness about accessible palliative care services
Manipal, October 27, 2024: In a bid to raise awareness about the critical importance of hospice and palliative care, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, in association with MAHE Student Affairs, organized a Walkathon on Saturday. The event, held as part of World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, aimed to highlight the need for accessible, compassionate care for individuals with life-limiting illnesses.
The Walkathon began at Board High School in Udupi and concluded at Dr. TMA Pai Hospital, covering key routes through KM Marg, Udupi Court, and Jodukatte Circle. Over 500 participants, including medical professionals, students, and families of palliative care patients, took part in the event.
Udupi District Commissioner, Dr. K. Vidyakumari, served as the chief guest and emphasized the importance of advocating for policies that enhance palliative care services. “This day is not just about raising awareness; it’s about pushing for change and ensuring that palliative care reaches everyone who needs it,” she said.
The Walkathon was flagged off by Mr. Sridhar Ganesan, Station Head of Adani Power Limited, who called for collective efforts to improve the lives of those facing serious health challenges.
Guest of honour, Nadoja Dr. G. Shankar, reiterated the mission to provide compassionate care to all, announcing a significant donation towards the construction of a Hospice and Recreation Centre by MAHE. He urged others to contribute to the centre’s ongoing operations.
Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor of Health Sciences at MAHE Manipal, in his presidential address, announced the upcoming inauguration of Karnataka’s largest Hospice and Recreation Centre, currently under construction. “Our goal is to ensure everyone has access to the compassionate care they deserve,” he added.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Dr. Anand Venugopal, COO of MAHE’s Teaching Hospital, and Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital. Dr. Naveen S. Salins, Associate Dean and Head of the Department of Palliative Medicine, provided an overview of the day’s significance, while Dr. Shashikiran Umakanth, Medical Superintendent of Dr. TMA Pai Hospital, delivered the vote of thanks. Dr. Krithika Rao served as the Master of Ceremonies.
In addition to the Walkathon, Kasturba Hospital hosted community awareness campaigns, social media advocacy efforts, and fundraising initiatives for the upcoming hospice at Manipal, reaffirming its commitment to improving the quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses.
