Mysore/Mysuru: Dr. Satish, Principal of Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMC&RI), emphasised the urgent need for dedicated Palliative Care Units in all District Government Hospitals and Medical Colleges across the country to support patients suffering from life-threatening illnesses.

He was speaking at the ‘Light of Hope’ awareness rally organised at J.K. Grounds as part of the World Hospice and Palliative Care Day celebrations.

The event was hosted at the MMC&RI Platinum Jubilee Hall by Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), in collaboration with MMC&RI, District Health and Family Welfare Department and several voluntary organisations.

Highlighting the growing need for Palliative Care Centres, Dr. Satish noted that patients battling chronic and terminal conditions such as cancer, stroke and HIV/AIDS require compassionate and specialised support.

He commended SVYM for its partnership with MMC&RI in running a free Palliative Care                    Centre since 2009.

During the event, Rotary International District Governor Rtn. P.K. Ramakrishna presented a cheque for Rs. 50,000 to SVYM in support of its palliative care initiatives.

SVYM CEO S. Savitha, Dr. Archana, Rtn. Ramaprasad and Palliative Care Programme Coordinator S. Nandini were present on the occasion.

Following the formal proceedings, Dr. Satish flagged off ‘Light of Hope’ rally which passed through main thoroughfares of Mysuru city, marking the World Hospice and Palliative Care Day.

Participants included representatives from Rotary Mysore North, Rotary Mysore Brindavan, Rotary Mysore Vijayanagar, Rotary Mysore Ambari  and Rotary Mysore South, North and East Clubs.