(By Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis)
In what can best be described as service before self, no fewer than 500 people recently benefitted from a free health camp organised by the Rotary Club of Lagos, Palmgrove Estate, in conjunction with the Indian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Importers of Nigeria (IPMIN).
The health camp which took place at the Indian Community in Palmgrove Estate on Saturday, 24th August, is one of the eight projects lined up for this year by the international service organisation as part of its humanitarian contributions to the society.
Also in attendance were members of IPMIN such as Dana, Ranbaxy, Therapeutics, Cadila and Sam Pharmaceuticals who reportedly donated the drugs given out to the beneficiaries.
Speaking with Pharmanews, Venugopal Jajoo, president of the club, explained that the health camp is conducted every three to four months.
“The essence of this camp is to provide free consultation and test on blood pressure, diabetic checks, HIV/AIDS as well as general medical check-up. As it often turns out, the prevalent cases are mainly malaria-related.
“This is why we have several doctors on ground to ensure treatments on any ailment are delivered promptly. Let me also use this opportunity to appreciate all the pharmaceutical companies under IPMIN that have been supporting us,” he said.
The Rotarian also disclosed that among the remaining projects for the year were eye screening and surgery camp, donation of artificial limbs to the physically-challenged, provision of potable water (borehole) and toilets to schools, replenishment of public libraries, medical and financial assistance to patients suffering from debilitating illnesses, support through donation of incubators and technical books to hospitals and cancer awareness seminar.
Corroborating his statement, Suman Ramesh, ex-president of the club, announced that over 46,000 artificial limbs had so far been donated while about 15,000 had undergone the free eye surgery.
Rotary Club of Lagos, Palmgrove Estate, was officially birthed on 30th June, 2008 as the 81st humanitarian organisation in the District 9110. It was formed through a combined effort of two Indians – Mr N. G. Patel and Mr D. S. Mirani (both industrialists) together with Alexander Thompoulous and Dr. M. D. Shoga.
With an initial membership of 20 professionals, the club today boasts of 48 active members.
