Published on: October 31, 2025

This month, we celebrate Sunanda Samal, Regional Facilitator at Pallium India, as she completes four remarkable years of learning, growth, and service. From introducing palliative care in remote districts of Odisha to forging partnerships with government systems in Goa and Maharashtra, Sunanda’s journey reflects the essence of Pallium India’s mission — to make compassionate care accessible to all. Read her inspiring story in her own words below.

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As I complete four meaningful years with Pallium India, I feel immense gratitude for the journey that has shaped my professional outlook. My role as a Regional Facilitator has given me the opportunity to work closely with diverse communities, government systems and health care professionals across Odisha, Goa and Maharashtra – each experience adding a unique dimension to my understanding of palliative care.

In Odisha, my journey began with the challenge of introducing the concept of palliative care in new districts. Meeting patients in remote areas, where pain relief and home-based support were unheard of, deeply moved me. Through collaboration with district health authorities and local champions, we initiated the first steps towards creating a network of palliative care providers who could extend care and compassion to those in need.

In Goa, the focus was on building partnerships with government institutions and sensitizing medical professionals. Working with the Directorate of Health Services, I witnessed how awareness sessions and dialogue can transform perspectives. The enthusiasm of doctors and nurses to enrol for our paid online training indicates their dedication and commitment. We were successful in getting a huge number of participants from Health Department of Goa for the paid training, creating a network of trained professionals. Goa taught me the importance of teamwork and how every partnership adds strength to the movement.

In Maharashtra, the signing of the MoU with NHM Maharashtra was a remarkable achievement which has paved way for better rapport with the team and has opened avenues for strong networking.

The MoU with Maharashtra State Rural Livelihood Mission (MSRLM) a non-health government department has been a unique achievement leading to onsite volunteers training in 4 pilot districts of Maharashtra.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been being trusted by the Virtual Education team of Pallium India to serve as a faculty member for one of the session of the online Foundation course for Doctors. Conducting sessions on ‘Organizing Palliative Care Services’ has been both an honour and a learning experience. I am truly grateful to the virtual education team for their confidence in me and giving me the opportunity to contribute continuously to capacity building initiatives. Looking back, these four years with Pallium India have been a blend of compassion, collaboration and commitment. The organization’s vision continues to inspire me every day, reminding me that palliative care is not just a service, but a movement of humanity, hope and healing.