Mangaluru: The Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) commemorated the 184th Birth Anniversary of its Founder, Rev. Fr Augustus Muller SJ, with a solemn thanksgiving mass and the inauguration of several new healthcare facilities at its Kankanady campus. The event was graced by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese & President of FMCI, along with Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho (Director), Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo (Designate Director), medical administrators, deans, faculty, and students, who gathered to pay tribute to the visionary founder.
A Day of Thanksgiving and Reflection on Leadership
The celebrations commenced at 8:00 AM with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Joseph Chapel, presided over by Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha. In his sermon, he drew inspiration from the biblical figure Queen Esther, emphasizing her unwavering faith, sacrifice, and commitment to service. He urged attendees to follow similar principles in their professional and personal lives, particularly in healthcare and community service. Several priests from the FMCI management joined the Eucharistic celebration, marking the solemn occasion with prayers for continued growth and excellence in medical service.
FMCI strengthens cancer treatment with SagiNova Co-60 HDR Brachytherapy Unit
Following the Thanksgiving Mass, the inauguration of the SagiNova Co-60 Source HDR Brachytherapy Unit took place at the Father Muller Oncology Centre. This new addition significantly advances cancer treatment at FMCI, offering high-precision radiation therapy with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissues.
Dr. Sandesh Rao, HOD of Radiation Oncology, highlighted that the German-engineered system, featuring a cobalt-60 source with 25 channels, enables:
✅ Targeted radiation therapy for various cancers
✅ Enhanced patient safety and treatment precision
✅ Real-time dose monitoring for improved therapeutic outcomes
The ceremony was led by Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, who blessed and commissioned the facility. Dr. Lanisha Jolitha Sequeira, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Radiation Oncology, hosted the event, and Mr. Sujith, General Manager of BEBig (the technology provider), was also present.
Expansion of Healthcare and Research Facilities
At 9:30 AM, the blessing and inauguration of additional floors in the Utility Building was held. The new facilities aim to enhance patient care, expand medical education, and introduce advanced diagnostic capabilities.
1️⃣ Dermatology OPD – A Leap into Aesthetic and Medical Care
The expanded Dermatology OPD now offers a comprehensive range of advanced treatments, including:
🔹 Botox & aesthetic procedures
🔹 Laser treatments & chemical peels
🔹 Scar revision & hair restoration
🔹 Specialized treatment for vitiligo, leprosy, and STDs
This upgraded OPD ensures cutting-edge care in both aesthetic and medical dermatology, enhancing patient outcomes.
2️⃣ Dental OPD – Strengthening Oral Healthcare
The newly allocated space for the Dental OPD improves patient accessibility and comfort. Plans are underway to upgrade dental equipment and introduce modern treatment technologies.
3️⃣ Audiology Unit – Meeting National Standards
Aligned with Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) guidelines, FMCI has expanded its Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology programs. The new facility now includes:
✅ Enhanced infrastructure for B.ASLP, M.Sc. Audiology, and M.Sc. Speech-Language Pathology students
✅ An Advanced Swallowing Lab for diagnosing and treating swallowing disorders
✅ A Vestibular (Balance) Unit for advanced hearing and balance assessments
These developments will significantly enhance diagnostic and rehabilitative services, ensuring holistic care for speech and hearing disorders.
4️⃣ FMCI AV Recording Studio – A Modern Media Hub
The newly inaugurated FMCI AV Recording Studio is a state-of-the-art facility designed to:
📌 Support academic documentation and e-learning initiatives
📌 Facilitate medical presentations and institutional outreach programs
📌 Enable high-quality content production for research and healthcare awareness
This media hub will play a crucial role in bridging medical education and digital advancements.
FMCI’s Enduring Legacy of Healing and Service
The 184th Founder’s Day celebrations reaffirmed FMCI’s commitment to:
✔ Providing world-class medical care
✔ Advancing healthcare research and education
✔ Emphasizing holistic and compassionate healing
With continuous expansion and technological advancements, FMCI remains dedicated to its founder Rev. Fr Augustus Muller’s vision—serving humanity with care, comfort, and innovation.
