On October 14, 2023, Barpeta Cancer Centre, under the Assam Cancer Care Foundation, observed World Hospice and Palliative Care Day. The event gathered a diverse audience of over 60 attendees, including oncologists, specialist doctors, nurses, and individuals deeply interested in palliative care.
The program was graced by esteemed guests, including Prof. Dr. Ramen Talukdar, Principal-cum-chief superintendent of Barpeta Medical College, who presided as the chief guest, and Ms. Gilly Burn, Oncology & Palliative Care specialist nurse from UK, the chief presenter. Special invitees included Prof. Dr. Partha Pratim Baruah, Medical Superintendent of Barpeta Medical College, and Mr. Rontu Sangma, Regional coordinator of Eastern and Northeast region for Pallium India.
Dr. Nirmal Kumar Singha, with a warm welcome speech, set the tone for the event. However, the focal point of the day was the captivating speech delivered by Ms. Gilly Burn. Her speech resonated with the essence of providing the right kind of palliative care, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compassion, and dignity in the final stages of life. In a heartwarming gesture, Burn distributed fruits to all the patients of the hospital. This act of kindness symbolized the core principles of palliative care – a holistic approach to improve the quality of life for patients facing life-limiting illnesses.
It was a day of reflection and inspiration, reaffirming the commitment to ensuring palliative care for every individual.