Mangalore Diocese News

By Ranville Carlo

Loretto - Bantwal, Aug 28 : ICYM Loretto Unit, in collaboration with the Health Commission and Youth Commission, organized a Blood Donation and Free Cancer Check-Up Drive. This event was held in association with Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Indian Cancer Society by Jewels Group and Indian Red-Cross Society on Sunday, August 25th, 2024, from 8:45 AM to 1:30 PM at Loretto CBSE English Medium School, Loretto.

The event commenced with a prayer song by ICYM members, setting a solemn and reflective tone, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. The occasion was graced by the presence of several distinguished guests, including Fr. Francis Crasta, Parish Priest of Loretto Parish; Cyprian D’Souza, Vice President of Loretto Parish; Shaila Barboza, Secretary of Loretto Parish; Prakash Vas, Commissions’ Coordinator; Praveen Pinto, Health Commission Convener; Dr. Reema Frank, Youth Commission Convener ; Snehal Rosario, ICYM President; Dr. Rohan Gatty, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Surgical Oncology at Father Muller Medical College Hospital; Dr. Dinesh Shet, Associate Professor of Medical Oncology at Father Muller Medical College Hospital; Teen Fernandes, Social Worker with the Jewel Group; and Mr. Praveen Kumar, District Coordinator for the Indian Red Cross.

Fr. Francis Crasta, the Parish Priest of Loretto Church, delivered a speech on cancer awareness, highlighting the importance of early detection and regular check-ups. Additionally, Oliveera, a social worker from the Jewel Group, spoke about the positive impact of cancer check-up drives on the community. Praveen Pinto, the Health Commission Convener, introduced the dignitaries on the dais to the audience.

The drive saw enthusiastic participation from both the youth and parish members, resulting in the collection of 75 units of blood. Among these 75 donors, 24 donors had their first experience of donating Blood. Each donor received a certificate on the spot as a token of appreciation for their generous contribution. Additionally, 200 patients underwent health check-ups, with 135 of them being female. Seven suspected cases were identified during the drive.

The blood donation camp was a resounding success, thanks to the overwhelming support and dedication of the staff from Father Muller Medical College Hospital, along with members of the Indian Cancer Society, Jewels Group, and the Indian Red Cross Society, all led by the motto “Donate Blood and Save Lives”.

Special thanks also go to ICYM Animator Alwyn Pinto for hosting the program and contributing to its grand success.

This event underscored the community's commitment to promoting health and well-being. The organizers extended their heartfelt gratitude to all donors and volunteers who contributed to the success of this event.