In remote Mynriah the rugged terrain often dictates the course of life. Located two hours away on foot from the nearest primary health centre (PHC) in Mawkynrew, which is itself little more than a village, the remoteness can pose huge challenges to people in need of healthcare.
However, Mynriah is also where a remarkable act of unity and determination unfolded.
The Village Health Council (VHC) of the village, which is in a non-motorable and hard-to-reach area, united to save the life of an elderly woman suffering from severe hypertension.
The 86-year-old’s condition had become critical due to high blood pressure and she needed immediate medical attention.
Mynriah, located two hours on foot from Mawkynrew, presents significant challenges due to its inaccessibility and the lack of motorable roads.
Despite these obstacles, the VHC members of Mynriah, driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility, coordinated with the Mawkynrew PHC to arrange for her transportation and medical care.
Equipped with a stretcher provided by the National Health Mission (NHM), the community members set off on their arduous journey. Through dense forests and steep hills, they carried the elderly woman.
Upon arrival at the Mawkynrew PHC, the elderly woman was kept overnight for observation. She was then referred to the tertiary centre as she urgently needed specialised medical consultation and management in gynaecology, medicine and psychiatry.
After long hours of dedicated care, the patient was stabilised and persuaded to undergo the necessary treatment at Ganesh Das Hospital in Shillong.
Dr Lamshuwa Mawlong, the active medical officer present at Mawkynrew PHC, praised the community members for their extraordinary efforts.
“What we witnessed today is a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together for a common goal. The determination and love displayed by the people of Mynriah are truly inspiring,” he said.
The VHC of Mynriah has set a benchmark for other communities, demonstrating that no obstacle is insurmountable when people unite with a shared purpose.
