Pics: Sumanth Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jun 21: The all new facilities of Lombard Memorial Hospital (LMH), Lombard Home Care Service and ophthalmology department were inaugurated on Friday June 21 at the hospital premises.
Rt Rev Hemachandra Kumar, bishop CSI KSD along with dignitaries Dr Narendra Shenoy, consultant ophthalmologist LMH; Dr Arthur Rodrigues, consultant ophthalmologist LMH; Rev Ivan D Soan, area chairman; Dr Sushil Jattana, director LMH; Dr Ganesh Kamath, senior medical officer; and Bharathi Hemachandra Kumar were present.
In his address, Bishop Rt Rev Hemachandra Kumar said, “Lombard Memorial Hospital is continually reaching new horizons and updating itself to better serve society. A light is of no use if it is lit and kept under a basket. The Christian community has been involved in service for a very long time, like candles that light themselves and brighten the world. Our responsibility is our gift from God. There are many patients who are willing to receive treatment. Preaching and care are two essential services of the Christian community. Providing eyesight is equivalent to giving life to a person. Lombard also offers ample opportunities for its students, preparing them to be ready for their professions upon graduation.”
Dr Narendra Shenoy remarked, “Today, many patients are unable to visit the hospital even for basic tests. At this juncture, it is crucial to have a home care service. We have made significant progress and are performing many modern surgeries.”
Dr Sushil Jathanna, the director, speaking on the occasion, said, “India has 14 crore senior citizens, many of whom suffer due to the unavailability of services and other barriers to accessing hospitals. Home care is the need of the hour. Recognizing this, we have started a home care service that includes blood tests, nursing care, medicine delivery, physiotherapy, and doctor visits at home. Dr Arthur Rodrigues will be available full-time in the ophthalmology department.”
Celestine Susan, associate professor Lombard Memorial College of Nursing welcomed the gathering. Rev Rachel D’Silva conducted the prayers. Rohi Rathnakar proposed the vote of thanks.