Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (MD)
Mangaluru, Oct 12: Karnataka Physiotherapy Teachers' Association on Monday October 12 organised a blood donation camp at at Wenlock Hospital here to mark the 46th birthday of health minister U T Khader.
U T Khader inaugurated the camp by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries.
In his inaugural address, Khader said, "God wishes us to live our lives for others. We should live for others by donating blood. I never celebrate my birthday, but this year, the medical students requested that they wanted to celebrate my birthday with a blood donation day and I agreed. My only wish is that no person should die due to lack of blood. We need to evolve into a society where there is no shortage of blood."
Addressing the students, Khader said, "Along with your education, having social concern is very important. Earlier knowledge was considered as the greatest gift but today, if you have access to the internet, you can get any kind of information within a matter of minutes. Blood donation is the greatest gift in the world today because even after so many technological advancements, there is still no alternative for blood. All districts will have well established blood banks and in all taluks, there will be blood storage units."
He also said that power is not permanent. "Power will come and go, but service to mankind is highly important. The government is trying to eradicate hunger by distributing free rice. Emotional quotient and spiritual quotient in a student are more important than IQ."
Applauding the students for their initiative in collecting 500 units of blood, he said, "In the coming days, let people voluntarily pledge to donate their organs too."
Addressing the gathering, MLA J R Lobo said, "Today is Khader's 46th birthday. I pray to God to shower His blessings on him so that he can continue to serve the community at large. U T Khader is very active, and is a role model to youngsters. He does not look at the clock when it comes to helping the needy and has always helped people whenever they were in need. He is known for his service, he is a person ceaselessly working for the improvement of the health department."
Shamili G Shanker from Udupi, Dr Vamadeva and Ram Gopal Shetty also spoke on the occasion.
Medical aid from G Shanker Trust was distributed to cancer patients by U T Khader. Shamili Shanker was felicitated by the minister for her service in treating cancer and kidney patients.
District surgeon Dr Rajeshwari Devi welcomed the gathering. Mohammed Suhail delivered the vote of thanks. Dr Rohira Shetty was the first blood donor at the camp.
Chairperson of Sri Devi, Myna Shetty, district health officer Dr Ramakrishna, and others were also present.