A large-scale Blood Donation and Health Check-up Camp, organized at St Sebastian Church,
Bendur in collaboration with Father Muller’s Medical College Hospital and Indian Cancer
Society, concluded on a highly successful note with enthusiastic public participation. Over 500
people actively took part in the initiative, reflecting strong community support for health and
social welfare.
The event was jointly organized by St Sebastian Church in association with CAL, Health
Commission, Family Commission, Women’s Commission, Lions and Leo Club Bejai, and
Blood Donors Mangalore.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by dignitaries, including
Rev Fr Walter Dsouza parish priests, Rev Fr Arun Lobo, Rev Fr Vivek Pinto, Rev Fr Ozmond
Dsouza, Mr Deepak Dsouza Vics president, Mr Royston Farrias Secretary, Mr Loy Rego all
commission convenor, Dr Abhiram Gatty Surgical Oncology department, Dr Sonia Pereira
Nursing superintendent, Mr. Ronald Fernandes Secretary of Lions Club Bejai Mr Farzan
Ahmed President of Blood Donors Mangalore. Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Walter
D’Souza, Parish Priest, emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare, stating that
“prevention is better than cure” and urging people to take proactive steps toward maintaining
their health. He also expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the camp.
Mr. Terrence Cardoza welcomed the gathering, while Mr. Melwin Peris, Family Health
commission Convener, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of organizers,
volunteers, and participants. Mr Joswin Pinto compared the program.
A special recognition was given to Ln Dr Oswald Furtado for his remarkable contribution of
donating blood 51 times, setting an inspiring example of selfless service.
Dr. Abhram Gatty of Surgical Oncology department conducted an awareness session on breast
and cervical cancer, highlighting preventive measures and early detection. Citing medical
statistics, it was noted that approximately one in seven individuals is affected by such cancers,
underlining the need for regular screening.
A total of 70 units of blood were collected during the camp. Notably, many youngsters donated
blood for the first time, expressing a deep sense of satisfaction in contributing to a noble cause.
Parish clergy and religious sisters also actively participated in the donation drive.

The camp offered a wide range of medical services, including breast and cervical cancer
screening, blood sugar testing, ENT consultations, orthopaedics, surgical oncology, general
medicine, ECG, dermatology, obstetrics and gynaecology (OBG), and speech and hearing care.
Numerous beneficiaries availed themselves of these facilities.

The event was jointly organized by St Sebastian Church in association with the Parish Pastoral
Council (PPC), Health Commission, Family Commission, Women’s Commission, Lions and
Leo Club Bejai, and Blood Donors Mangalore.

The overwhelming participation and collective effort ensured the camp’s grand success,
reinforcing the spirit of community service and health awareness in Bendur.