george town: Temple of Fine Arts (TFA) has been supporting the underprivileged since 2000, offering a wide range of general and specialist consultations and treatments free of charge at the Shivasanta Medical Camp.
Camp coordinator P. Murguia, 67, said the camp, located at 11 River Road, next to the Tamil school, hosts more than 45 specialists, general practitioners (GPs) and more than 20 nurses every Thursday. Hospital staff are also participating as volunteers.
“During the night service, there are usually two specialists and a general practitioner on duty, and at least five other volunteers who help record blood pressure and blood sugar levels,” he said, adding that the camp is at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., it admits an average of 30 patients, it added. .
“Volunteers include ear, nose and throat doctors, eye and respiratory specialists, dermatologists, orthopedic surgeons, pediatricians, gynecologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, neurologists, dentists and oncologists. , including urologists.
“Experts also recommend that the patient undergo further treatment at Penang General Hospital.
“I coordinate the volunteers and the roster and make sure everything runs smoothly. Most of our volunteers are also members of the Penang Hindu Association (PHA).
“In the past five years, we have donated more than 20 medical beds to bedridden patients and 45 wheelchairs to disabled and elderly people.
“We also provide formula and diapers to infants and the elderly, and free prescription glasses to the poor. We have donated over 500 glasses to
Mr Murguia, who is also PHA chairman, said the camp was run in a building owned by the local council.
“[This initiative]would not have been possible without the support of the local council. We would like to thank the council for their continued support and cooperation. We are also grateful to our regular donors.”
He said selfless individuals who are dedicated to changing the lives of vulnerable people truly embody the essence of humanitarianism and community spirit.
The camp was established by TFA's Welfare Subcommittee at the request of its founder and advisor, Swami Shantanand Saraswati, and upholds the organization's motto: “Love of God and Service to Our Fellows.” .
A nonprofit organization, TFA also trains young artists in traditional Indian dance and the performance of musical instruments such as the harmonium and sitar.
We also demonstrate our commitment to serving others through philanthropic activities such as medical camps, which operate in a spirit of service by providing free medical care without expecting anything in return.
