Udupi: In a major boost to emergency medical care in Udupi, Lombard Memorial (Mission) Hospital (LMH) inaugurated its blood storage unit on Wednesday, marking a crucial advancement in the hospital’s ongoing efforts to deliver comprehensive and life-saving healthcare services.

The inauguration was led by Bishop Hemachandra Kumar of the CSI Karnataka Southern Diocese, who offered prayers and cut the ceremonial ribbon. Blessings were later delivered by Raichal T J, setting a spiritual tone to the significant occasion.

The formal program commenced with a prayer by Ivan D Soans, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by attending dignitaries.

🌟 Inaugural Addresses

In his heartfelt speech, Bishop Hemachandra Kumar emphasized the vital role of blood in saving lives.

“Even a single drop can save someone. A hospital is complete only when it offers every essential service. LMH continues to evolve, ensuring that no patient is denied treatment due to a lack of resources. The blood storage unit is a vital support system for patients and medical staff alike,” he said, acknowledging the contributions of S Jayakar Shetty, Shivaram Shetty, and Dr Sushil Jathanna.

S Jayakar Shetty, chairman of the Indian Red Cross Society, Kundapur, highlighted the facility’s strategic value:

“This unit fills a critical gap. Earlier, Udupi had only two blood banks—in Manipal and Ajjarkad. LMH’s initiative will save countless lives, especially during emergencies. This is only the beginning; our goal is to establish a full-fledged blood bank here.”

Delivering the presidential address, Dr Sushil Jathanna, director of LMH, described the occasion as a milestone:

“With surgeries increasing, the absence of on-site blood storage caused stress among patients and families. This new unit addresses that gap. We are also planning to inaugurate a breast cancer unit within a month. Every unit of donated blood can save up to three lives—awareness is key.”

🙏 Ceremony and Participation

The event concluded with a prayer by Kishore Kumar and a benediction from Bishop Hemachandra Kumar. The gathering was welcomed by Dr B N Peralaya, while Leona Strelita offered the vote of thanks. The program was smoothly anchored by Medha.

Among those present were:

  • Shivaram Shetty, Treasurer, Indian Red Cross Society, Kundapur

  • Dr Sharadha Vivek, Medical Officer

  • Dr Dananjay Bhat, Director, LMH Blood Storage Unit

  • Deena Prabhavathi, Administrative Officer

  • Rohi Rathnakar, PRO

  • Students, hospital staff, and community members

The event marks a new chapter in LMH’s commitment to healthcare excellence and social service, with strong community collaboration at its core.