Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 23: A large-scale blood donation and health check-up camp, organized at St Sebastian Church, Bendur in collaboration with Father Muller’s Medical College Hospital and Indian Cancer Society, concluded on a highly successful note with enthusiastic public participation. Over 500 people actively took part in the initiative, reflecting strong community support for health and social welfare.
The event was jointly organized by St Sebastian Church in association with CAL, Health Commission, Family Commission, Women’s Commission, Lions and Leo Club Bejai, and Blood Donors Mangalore.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by dignitaries, including Fr Walter D’Souza parish priests, Fr Arun Lobo, Fr Vivek Pinto, Fr Ozmond D’Souza, Deepak D’Souza Vics president, Royston Farrias secretary, Loy Rego all commission convenor, Dr Abhiram Gatty surgical oncology department, Dr Sonia Pereira nursing superintendent, Ronald Fernandes secretary of Lions Club Bejai, Farzan Ahmed president of Blood Donors Mangalore. Addressing the gathering, Fr Walter D’Souza, parish priest, emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare, stating that ‘prevention is better than cure’ and urging people to take proactive steps toward maintaining their health. He also expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the camp.
Terrence Cardoza welcomed the gathering, while Melwin Peris, Family Health Commission convener, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of organizers, volunteers, and participants. Joswin Pinto compared the programme.
A special recognition was given to Ln Dr Oswald Furtado for his remarkable contribution of donating blood 51 times, setting an inspiring example of selfless service.
Dr Abhram Gatty of surgical oncology department conducted an awareness session on breast and cervical cancer, highlighting preventive measures and early detection. Citing medical statistics, it was noted that approximately one in seven individuals is affected by such cancers, underlining the need for regular screening.
A total of 70 units of blood were collected during the camp. Notably, many youngsters donated blood for the first time, expressing a deep sense of satisfaction in contributing to a noble cause.
Parish clergy and religious sisters also actively participated in the donation drive.
The camp offered a wide range of medical services, including breast and cervical cancer screening, blood sugar testing, ENT consultations, orthopaedics, surgical oncology, general medicine, ECG, dermatology, obstetrics and gynaecology (OBG), and speech and hearing care.
Numerous beneficiaries availed themselves of these facilities.
The event was jointly organized by St Sebastian Church in association with the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), Health Commission, Family Commission, Women’s Commission, Lions and Leo Club Bejai, and Blood Donors Mangalore.
The overwhelming participation and collective effort ensured the camp’s grand success, reinforcing the spirit of community service and health awareness in Bendur.