Youth brave odds, stand tall in time of Nipah

KOZHIKODE: Terrorised at the Nipah outbreak, none dared to roam around at the outpatient wing of Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (KMCH) which remained deserted. It required wit and spirit of selflessness of a group of socially responsible youngsters who imparted assistance of all sorts to ensure immediate treatment facilities. Though the hospital administration sought the help of PWD employees it turned out to be a nutshell attempt.

The hospital required setting up of isolation wards, oxygen cylinder supply, safeguarding windows, doors and rooms; painting, fixation of aluminum doors, air conditioning and electrification. The hospital administration, superintendent, medical college Principal and doctors remained confused at the need of the hour, that is, to facilitate the hospital within four days.

With the support and encouragement of Dr Jayesh Kumar and Dr K.M. Kuriakose, a group of youngsters- Siraj, Aashib, Rasheed, Aasif, Riyas, Mahmood, and Vijayan- of Fight for Life foundation voluntarily completed the work wearing masks and gloves in the most vulnerable and disease prone area. The work was completed in seven Intensive Care Units and thirty eight rooms. The panicky condition sought remedy with their courageous intervention of preparing over fifty rooms especially for Nipah patients.

“Dr. Jayesh Kumar called me over phone last Friday at 9 30 p.m.  to reach Medical  College immediately for the issue. Even a few hospital staff discouraged us. Earlier workers left it halfway through and our family members were really concerned. From Saturday evening to Monday morning we worked in  full swing with constant support of doctors“, said Siraj,  a Fight for life volunteer.