Daijiworld Media Network - Justin

Udupi, Oct 2: The AC Department of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, and the Darpana Mahila Pili Tanda have together contributed Rs 2.2 lac to support the treatment of children with cancer at the hospital's Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology.

Staff of the AC Department of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, raised Rs 70,000 by dressing up in a variety of creative veshas on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami (Ashtami). The entire amount was handed over directly to the Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology for the treatment of children from economically weaker families. With this contribution, the department's support for charitable causes through its various initiatives over the years has crossed Rs 40.7 lac.

In a separate gesture, the Darpana Mahila Pili Tanda, a women's tiger dance troupe, extended financial assistance of Rs 1,50,000 towards the treatment of two children currently undergoing cancer care in the department. The troupe said the contribution was made possible by the love and support of its members' children and parents, well-wishers and admirers, and expressed its commitment to continue taking up socially meaningful work. The team also wished the two children a speedy recovery.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, said, "Childhood cancer places an enormous emotional and financial burden on families, and timely treatment can make all the difference. It is a matter of pride that our own AC Department team has, year after year, turned festive traditions into a source of hope for these children. We are equally grateful to the Darpana Mahila Pili Tanda for using their art to support young patients. On behalf of Kasturba Hospital, I thank every member, supporter and donor for their dedication and generosity. Such support strengthens our efforts to ensure that no child is denied care because of financial hardship."

Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, expressed its gratitude to all those who contributed to and supported these initiatives.