Bethany Hospital Outreach Nongpoh brought its 10th anniversary celebrations to a grand conclusion yesterday with a formal event that underscored a decade of unwavering commitment to compassionate care and service to the community.
Significant highlights of the event were the inauguration of the dialysis unit of the hospital which is the first in the district, release of a commemorative souvenir and unveiling of the bust of the founder of the hospital, Dr. John L. Sailo Ryntathiang.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh and Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem attended the event as guests.
In her keynote address, Lyngdoh praised the hospital for its provision of quality healthcare to the people of Nongpoh and surrounding communities. She emphasised the hospital’s core values of “Compassion, Care, and Commitment” personified by the founder of the hospital.
She said the first dialysis unit in Nongpoh marks a significant milestone in healthcare accessibility for the region.
Syiem recalled the inspirational quote by Dr. Sailo, “I dare to dream” likening it to the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. for the American people. He cited three key aspects of Bethany Hospital that stood out to him: the quality healthcare it provides to the district, the employment opportunities it creates and the welcoming and hospitable environment fostered by the hospital staff.
Hospital Director Achula D. Sailo shared the heartfelt story that inspired the establishment of Bethany Hospital Outreach in Nongpoh. She recounted how, over ten years ago, the land where the hospital now stands was once a paddy field.
She said the tragic death of a chowkidar’s wife, who succumbed to illness while being transported to Shillong for treatment, deeply moved her late husband, Dr. Sailo. This event, coupled with the challenges faced by patients who had to travel long distances to Guwahati for healthcare, fuelled Dr. Sailo’s determination to provide quality healthcare locally, she said.
She also highlighted the hospital’s significant progress over the past decade, including the expansion of services in Byrnihat and Umsning. These developments, she emphasized, reflect the hospital’s enduring commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of rural communities.
Pastor-in-Charge of Mawroh Presbyterian Church Rev. Lyndan Syiem led the thanksgiving session, expressing gratitude for the hospital’s achievements and seeking blessings for its future endeavours.
