Published on: December 31, 2025

On 20 December 2025, something quietly beautiful happened. The Pallium India TIPS IP team organised a small escape for our palliative care beneficiaries and their families. To step outside illness and in to the world beyond their beds and walls, even if for a few hours.

For most of them, the world had grown very small. Social isolation had become a daily reality. The walls of their homes had become the limits of their universe. Time moved slowly, days felt heavy, and the absence of connection often deepened their pain. We wanted to change that, even if only for a day.

The idea was simple, fresh air, a movie, and a meal. When we told them about the plan, their excitement was immediate and palpable. After days of waiting, the day finally arrived. They dressed up with care, arrived early, and together we set off towards Poovar, with smiles, anticipation, and hope riding along with us.

At Cine Café Poovar, we were welcomed with kindness. The staff were ready even before we arrived, gently lifting our wheelchair users, holding hands, and helping them settle into theatre seats with dignity. As the lights dimmed and the movie began, we noticed something special. The film itself may not have been extraordinary, but for our beneficiaries, it was joyful. Their faces lit up, not because of the screen, but because they were there, part of the world again.

During the interval, the theatre owner surprised us with tea and popcorn, offered purely out of goodwill. Small gestures carried big meaning. After the movie, the same hands helped our beneficiaries move out safely. The softly lit compound became a space for photographs, laughter, and quiet moments of togetherness. Love found its way into every frame.

Dinner followed. Inside the restaurant, they were encouraged to order whatever they felt like eating. Some dishes were new, some familiar, and volunteers patiently helped with choices. This wasn’t just about food – it was about sharing, talking, laughing, feeding each other, clicking pictures, and making memories. When it was time to pay, the restaurant owner offered a generous discount, saying it was his way of being part of the day. Kindness met kindness.

Not everyone could come with us. A few beneficiaries stayed back due to pain, mobility restrictions, and medical risks. They were deeply missed, but never forgotten. We made sure they received the food they loved as a special treat, so they too could feel included in the joy of the day.

As we returned, the sun had set and the Christmas lights lined the streets, glowing softly like reminders of hope. Back at Pallium India, we checked in with each person. Many told us they had not gone out for months, some for years. Their smiles, their words, and even their silence said enough. That day had mattered.

It ended with a quiet sense of fulfilment. A reminder that dignity is not a luxury, joy is not optional, and no one should be left behind.

This festive season, may we be reminded of compassion, togetherness, and the power of small acts of kindness. Our deepest thanks to the generous donors who made this possible, and to every staff member and volunteer who gave their time, care, and heart. Let us continue to walk with our people, holding hands, opening doors, and reminding them, again and again, that they are not alone.

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