Published on: October 9, 2024

On September 29, 2024, Pallium India, in collaboration with Kudumbashree’s Disability Mainstreaming Program, organised a pediatric medical camp at Buds School, Venganoor.

Established in 2004, Buds School has been a beacon of support for individuals with psychological challenges, offering rehabilitation, training and daycare services.

At Pallium India, we care for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, focusing on alleviating their suffering, enhancing the quality of life, and providing holistic care to both the children and their families. With a deep commitment to ensuring access to palliative care, we aim to bring hope and dignity to those who need it the most.

The pediatric medical camp provided a much-needed platform to address the healthcare needs of children and adolescents in the community, particularly those with psychological challenges and life-limiting conditions.

Medical camps like this are vital in bridging healthcare gaps for rural and under-served populations. Through these initiatives, we identify children who require palliative care, provide follow-up services, and ensure consistent monitoring of their health trajectory.

The camp was inaugurated by Mr R.S Sreekumar (Venganoor Panchayat president & Volunteer of Pallium India). Dr. Sangeetha (Senior Palliative Care Physician and Doctor in-charge of Children’s palliative care at TIPS, Pallium India) delivered the welcome speech. Dr. Sunil Kumar (Director-in-Charge of TIPS) spoke on the occasion.

The camp offered free consultations with pediatricians and palliative care physicians, and checkups, including dental, for children of all ages, as well as community awareness sessions for parents regarding importance of pediatric palliative care. An experienced team of healthcare professionals, including Dr. Sunil Kumar, Dr. Robin Abraham (Associate Professor of Pediatrics at SUT Academy of Medical Science), Dr. Naicy (Dentist), Dr. Amalu (Dentist), and Dr. Sangeetha, provided specialized care.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Dhanya S (Principal of Buds School) and her team for their generous support in hosting this event. We would also like to thank NSS (National Service Scheme) volunteers from ACE College of Engineering and other well-wishers for their support.

Twenty-five children and their families benefited from the camp. Group activities were conducted to engage both patients and their families, fostering a sense of community and support. The collaborative efforts of doctors, nurses, social welfare officers, NSS volunteers, psychologists, physiotherapists, and others made the camp a resounding success. Alongside the healing hands of care, nourishing meals were shared, weaving a warmth and welcome that embraced both patients and their families.

Through initiatives like this, Pallium India continues to build a network of care and create a community of hope for children with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we can work towards improving the lives of these children, supporting their families, and ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve.

(Prepared by Hridhi S Shibu, Social welfare officer- Pediatrics, Pallium India.)