Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 21: Father Muller Medical College (FMMC) in collaboration with Sankalp India Foundation marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Father Muller Thalassemia Centre. The inaugural ceremony took place at the general ward 'L ward' and was followed by a programme in the Father Muller Convention Centre on Thursday March 21.
The event was graced by chief guest Dr Vivekananda Bhat assistant professor department of Medical Genetics KMC Manipal, and presided over by Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho director FMCI. The management committee, HOD and faculty of paediatrics, HOD of IHBT were also in attendance.
Fr Jeevan George Sequeira, administrator of FMMCH, led the gathering to the event with introduction and a brief on the need of this thalassemia centre, which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The prayer was conducted by the director FMCI, and hymns were sung by Fr Ajith B Menezes administrator FMMC. Dr Sreedhar Avabharatha HOD paediatrics briefed on the thalassemia centre and emphasised the role of management FMCI in providing free care for people suffering from Thalassemia. Dr Chandana Pai stressed on the importance of a need for the thalassemia centre and urged people to donate blood often such that ailing patients may benefit from it and lives may be saved. She also stressed that Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormal haemoglobin production, leading to severe anaemia.
Speaking regarding Thalassemia Dr Chandana Pai, paediatric haematologist oncologist said, "Today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing support to those patients who have thalassemia and blood related problems. Thalassemia is a disease that requires intensive care and support from various streams of medical science. Sankalpa NGO has been working for decades over thalassemia and we have held this to give state-of-the-art treatment to thalassemia patients. Our goal is not only to manage thalassemia, but also to improve the lives of those affected with this condition. This is the first-of-its-kind center in the entire district of Dakshina Kannada, serving a high number of thalassemia patients. Around 150 patients come every month for blood transfusion. Our thalassemia center will offer a range of services such as regular blood transfusion, genetic counselling and new treatment options. We ensure that every patient who walks to our door gets personalised care and support. We are proud to announce that disciplinary care will be provided free of charge but with utmost care, love and expertise. We believe that by increasing the awareness of thalassemia in the society, we can improve support for those who are suffering from this disorder. This is not just a one-time job but an ongoing battle to be tackled with care."
The centre, which was formerly located at a government hospital, had to be shifted to the campus due to a deficit of funds.
Dr Kirana Pailoor, head of immunohematology and blood transfusion at IHBT, played a crucial role in arranging a continuous blood supply for thalassemia patients, emphasizing the collaborative efforts involved in managing this condition.
Under the expertise of Dr Chandana Pai and the leadership of Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho director FMCI and Fr Jeevan George Sequeira administrator FMMCH, the thalassemia centre has become a reality. The centre is benefiting over 150 children and adults. It requires about two to three donors to provide blood and its components for one person suffering from thalassemia. Along with free blood transfusion, free medication, and counselling are also provided.
The collaboration between Father Muller Medical College and Sankalp India Foundation has brought hope and support to those battling Thalassemia, making a positive impact on the community.