Pics: Meryick D’Silva
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (CLP)
Mangalore, Oct 16: It was the 100th birthday celebration of cab driver C R Robert Michael D' Souza. Sadly though, Michael fell ill and was unable to attend the celebration which was scheduled held at Canara College auditorium here on Thursday October 16.
The centenary celebration organized by his friends and well-wishers dampened after Michael D'Souza fell ill following a hectic week of activities.
On behalf of Michael, his granddaughter and niece cut the cake.
The doctor who diagnosed him advised him to take an injection for temporary relief from fever but he refused. His opinion was, "I have not taken any injection or medicine till now, nor will I take it in future."
A close friend of Michael and convener of the centenary celebrations, rationalist Prof Narendra Nayak in his address explained the reason for his absence and said, "Since a week, he had a hectic schedule because of which he fell sick. He was very happy to celebrate his 100th birthday. As an enthusiastic cab driver, he had taken a round of the city in his car to celebrate his birthday in his own way. He had also participated in the birthday celebration organized by his neighbours.
"Later he had gone out to the bank and had parked his car at around 2 pm, and at around 4 pm he took ill. He had a check up and was diagnosed with fever. The doctor advised him to take an injection for temporary relief and participate in the celebration. But the strong man refused stating that he had never taken injection in his lifetime and would only take some rest at home," Prof Nayak said.
A number of Michael's family members, friends and well-wishers were present.