Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 26: A Mega Health Camp was organised on Sunday, October 25 as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Milagres Catholic Sabha Unit, in collaboration with the Health Commission of Milagres Parish and Milagres College of Nursing, Father Muller Medical College Hospital with the support of the Indian Cancer Society and other healthcare partners. The camp benefited 345 people by providing access to essential health screening and medical consultation services.
The programme commenced with an inaugural ceremony, including a prayer song by the members of Milagres College of Nursing, followed by the traditional watering of plants, symbolising growth, care, and well-being. Valerian D'Souza programme convenor welcomed the gathering, and Dr Diana Lobo, principal of Milagres College of Nursing, delivered the vote of thanks. Nigel Pereira presented a glimpse of the 30-year journey of the Milagres Catholic Sabha Unit, highlighting its service and fellowship over the years.
The programme was conducted with the blessings and support of Fr Ivan Michael Rodrigues, parish priest, who extended valuable guidance and Fr Avith Pais, assistant parish priest, also offered his support and encouragement.
The health camp aimed to promote preventive healthcare, create awareness about early diagnosis, and make essential screening services accessible to the community. The services provided included fasting blood sugar (FBS), random blood sugar (RBS), total cholesterol testing, ECG, bone density assessment, eye examinations, and dental check-ups. The Indian Cancer Society provided free Pap smear screening, while vitamin D testing was offered at a concessional rate. These services encouraged participants to prioritise regular health check-ups and timely medical consultation.
Specialist doctors from various disciplines provided consultations and medical guidance. The participating specialists included Dr Vivian D’Almeida (Orthopaedics), Dr Shannon Fernandes (Gynaecology), Dr Pradeep Periera (Cardiology), Dr Michelle Fernandes (Dermatology), Dr Preetham Tauro (Paediatrics), Dr Kuldeep Moras (ENT), Dr Elroy Saldanha (Oncosurgery), Dr Ashwini Colaco (Dental surgery), and Dr Akshay Dias (General medicine).
The participation of doctors from Father Muller institutions was coordinated with the support of Dr Rithesh D'Cunha laboratory and diagnostic services were supported by Father Muller Laboratory, Agilus, Ideal Lab, Bone Density, and Audiology service representatives.
The successful organisation of the camp was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Catholic Sabha president David Pereira, secretary Ronette D'Souza, convenor Valerian D'Souza and Dr Diana Lobo, committee members, and volunteers. The faculty and students of Milagres College of Nursing actively contributed to the arrangements and smooth conduct of the programme. Anushka D'Mello, BSc Nursing student, served as the compere.
The presence of Dixon D'Souza, vice president of Milagres Parish; Jacintha Fernandes, secretary; and Roshan Saldanha, coordinator of all Commission, added significance to the occasion and encouraged the organisers in their community service efforts.
The mega health camp served as a meaningful platform for promoting preventive healthcare, encouraging early detection of health problems, and providing medical guidance under one roof. The participation of 345 beneficiaries reflected the importance of such community-oriented initiatives and the collective commitment of the organisers and healthcare professionals.
The programme concluded with heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors, supporting institutions, organisers, volunteers, faculty members, students, and members of the public whose cooperation contributed to its success.