Published on: February 1, 2025

Children’s palliative care brings comfort, compassion, and dignity during the difficult journey of childhood illness. It supports not only the young patients but also their families, offering solace, empathy, and a sense of community. By improving the quality of life for children with life-limiting conditions, palliative care fosters a deeper understanding and support for these children in society.

On November 25th and 26th, 2024, Pallium India organized a Children’s Medical Camp at St. Martha’s Special School in Menamkulam, Kazhakoottam. The camp was a significant event aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of children in the community, particularly those facing psychological challenges and life-limiting illnesses.

St. Martha’s Special School, established in 2004, has been dedicated to the holistic development of children with special needs. Over the years, the school has worked tirelessly to empower these children to lead self-reliant, dignified lives, fully integrated into their communities.

Pallium India’s Commitment to Pediatric Palliative Care

At Pallium India, we recognize the unique needs of children battling serious illnesses. Our Pediatric Palliative Care Program offers comprehensive and compassionate support, ensuring that every child and their family receives tailored care that enhances their quality of life. Our expert team of professionals is committed to providing holistic care to children with life-limiting conditions.

The Medical Camp: A Lifeline for Children and Families

Dr Sangeetha Suresh (Doctor-in-charge, Paediatric Palliative care, Pallium India) delivered the welcome address. The programme was inaugurated by Dr.Sunil Kumar M.M (Director-in–charge, Pallium India).Sister.Lisy (Principal of St. Martha’s School) also spoke on the occasion.

The camp served as a vital platform to address the healthcare needs of children and adolescents in the community, particularly those facing life-limiting conditions. It provided free consultations with pediatricians, palliative care physicians, and other specialists. The camp also offered dental check-ups for children, gynecological consultations for adolescent girls and mothers, and support for mothers of children with special needs.

A key highlight of the camp was a community awareness session conducted by Dr. Sunil Kumar (Director-in-charge, Pallium India) for parents about pediatric palliative care. The interactive session, enriched with real-life scenarios, encouraged active participation and provided valuable insights into the importance of palliative care.

Expert Care from a Dedicated Team

The camp brought together an expert panel of healthcare professionals, including:

  • Dr. Veena (Associate Professor, Pediatrics, SAT)
  • Dr. Asha (Pediatrician and Volunteer)
  • Dr. Vineetha (Gynecologist)
  • Dr. Amirtha Thampi (Head of Clinical Services, TIPS)
  • Dr. Sreedevi Warrier (Head, Education and Skill Building, Pallium India)
  • Dr. Sreejini (Head, Research and Innovation, Pallium India)
  • Dr. Amritha Suresh (Research Coordinator, Research and Innovation, Pallium India)
  • Dr. Shaeniya (Palliative care physician)
  • Dr. Anna (Palliative care physician)

This skilled team provided specialized care to 55 children and their families, registering 13 children for ongoing palliative care, including home care support.

Gratitude and Collaboration

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sister Lisy, the Principal of St. Martha’s Special School, and the dedicated staff at the school for their unwavering support. The success of the camp was made possible by the collective efforts of doctors, nurses, social welfare officers, volunteers, psychologists, physiotherapists, and other professionals who contributed their time and expertise.

Alongside medical care, nourishing meals were shared, creating a warm, welcoming environment for both the children and their families.

Building a Network of Support

Through initiatives like this, Pallium India continues to create a network of care and foster a supportive community for children living with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we are making a difference, one child at a time.

Prepared by:
Mrs. Chandralekha R.S,
Nurse in Charge, Pediatric Palliative Care, Pallium India

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