Free Medical Camp & Basic Life Support Training Held at Holy Rosary Church, Yelahanka

Yelahanka, July 20, 2025 — A successful Free Medical Camp and Basic Life Support (BLS) Training was held at Holy Rosary Church, Yelahanka, on Sunday, July 20, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event was spearheaded by Rev. Fr Mariappa Gregory, the Parish Priest, in collaboration with the St Vincent de Paul Society, Bangalore Baptist Hospital (BBH), and the Catholic Doctors’ Association (CDA). Designed to serve the health needs of the faithful and equip them with emergency life-saving skills, the initiative was a blend of compassion, care, and practical knowledge.

The camp commenced with an inaugural programme right after the 7:45 a.m. Tamil Mass. Rev. Fr Alban Zeo, Secretary of the Commission for Health, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony. A spirit of unity and service was reflected in the lighting of the lamp by Dr. Spurgeon (Director, BBH), Dr. Carol (Vice President, CDA), and members of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Rev. Dn Sony Charles proclaimed the Gospel from Matthew 9:2-8, a passage highlighting Jesus’ healing ministry, followed by an opening prayer by Dr. Spurgeon. Fr Alban Zeo, in his address, expressed gratitude for the Church’s role in facilitating healthcare access through faith-based partnerships.

Following the inauguration, an English Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr Alban Zeo. At its conclusion, he was honored and felicitated for his presence and encouragement. The medical camp then opened its doors to the parishioners and guests. Free services included ECG, blood sugar and blood pressure checks, BMI assessments, and consultations with specialists in cardiology, ENT, dermatology, orthopaedics, paediatrics, gynaecology, and more. Doctors and healthcare professionals from BBH and CDA generously gave their expertise in service to the faithful.

A highlight of the day was the Basic Life Support (BLS) Training, which educated participants on essential emergency techniques. The session covered recognizing medical crises, performing CPR, managing seizures, and responding to choking. Attendees, including youth and Church volunteers, actively participated in hands-on CPR practice. The training empowered many with skills that could prove critical during real-life emergencies, especially during Church gatherings and events.

The event witnessed a heartening response from parishioners, families, children, and the elderly. Many expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to access quality medical care within their Church setting. The initiative fostered not only physical well-being but also a deeper spirit of solidarity among the faithful. The organizers extended their heartfelt thanks to Fr Mariappa Gregory, Bangalore Baptist Hospital, Catholic Doctors’ Association, the St Vincent de Paul Society, and the Holy Rosary parishioners and youth, whose support and collaboration made the day an inspiring success.