KOTTAYAM: In a first-of-its-kind initiative for government hospitals in Kerala, Kottayam Medical College has launched a rest centre for bystanders of cancer patients, marking a compassionate milestone in its diamond jubilee year.

The 1,000 sq ft centre — located next to the cancer ward — was proposed by Dr TK Jayakumar and funded entirely by the 1985 MBBS alumni batch at a cost of ₹35 lakhs. It features modern two-tier beds, separate hygienic areas for men and women, secure access control, CCTV surveillance, and a well-equipped dining area. Importantly, ICU announcements will be audible within the rest centre via an internal speaker system.

Inaugurating the facility, Minister VN Vasavan (Devaswom, Port and Cooperation) hailed the gesture as an example of healthcare humanism, saying, “This unique centre recognises the emotional and physical needs of those who stand by cancer patients through their toughest hours.”

The event was presided over by Dr Varghese Punnose, Principal of Kottayam Medical College. Speakers included Dr TK Jayakumar, Dr Jayaprakash KP, Dr Jabir A, Dr Jose Tom, Dr Sam Christie Mammen, Dr Susan Uthup, Dr Suresh Kumar, and Dr Tigy Thomas Jacob. Both Dr Jayaprakash and Dr Jabir are senior office-bearers of the Class of 1985 alumni society.

The rest centre will be jointly maintained by the cancer ward nursing staff and the hospital housekeeping department, ensuring round-the-clock care and upkeep.

#KottayamMedicalCollege #CancerCareKerala #BystanderSupport #AlumniInitiative