Amrita Hospital, Kochi successfully conducted a free pediatric medical camp for more than 400 children in Mangaluru, Karnataka. At the Boloor Amrita Vidyalayam, our school for children in the area, the team provided consultations and treatments. As well, children identified with congenital heart disease or other critical heart conditions requiring surgical intervention were assured free treatment and surgeries at Amrita Hospital.
The pediatric cardiology team saw children up to the age of 18 who are with families that cannot afford these services. Led by Dr. Brijesh PK, Professor at the Pediatric Cardiology Department, the camp offered a ray of hope to those in need of advanced medical care.
“On average, one in a hundred newborns worldwide has a heart-related ailment. It is not a condition to panic about. With timely and appropriate surgical intervention, it can be cured,” said Dr. Brijesh.
“There is a lack of awareness about this, and the high cost of treatment often prevents timely care for children. Amma suggested organising such a camp in Mangaluru, and our team came here for that purpose. We plan to organise more such camps in the future.”
Ivan D’Souza, Karnataka Legislative Council Member, inaugurated the event, lauding the initiative as “equal to God’s care for everyone” and praised Amma’s unparalleled dedication to public service. He further remarked, “Amma silently works for the welfare of humanity, and this initiative is a testament to her compassionate vision.”
Vedavyas Kamath, Mangaluru MLA, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and expressed his gratitude, stating, “The medical camp is a divine activity driven by Amma’s love and care for all children. It happened because Amma sees everyone as her own children.” He congratulated and appreciated the entire team for their efforts in making the camp a success.
The official function commenced with a lamp-lighting ceremony by Swamini Mangalamrita Prana, representing Mata Amritanandamayi Math. Suresh Amin, President of the Mata Amritanandamayi Seva Samithi, delivered the welcome address. He emphasised the camp as a practical expression of Amma’s commitment to delivering advanced medical treatments that are accessible to everyone.
The event was attended by several cultural and social dignitaries, further highlighting its significance. Children from various districts in Karnataka, many with congenital heart diseases, traveled to Mangaluru to avail the services of this life-changing initiative.
This pediatric medical camp is part of Amrita Hospital’s broader mission to provide quality healthcare to underprivileged communities. Since 1998, more than 5.9 million patients have been treated free of charge.
