Every life saved starts with a race against time, and ambulance drivers are at the center of that race, navigating chaos, uncertainty, and haste to provide hope. Manipal Hospitals Kolkata organized “Salute the Real Heroes Family”, a touching event honoring these unsung heroes and their families.

Dr. Kishen Goel, Consultant and Head of Emergency, Manipal Hospitals, Kolkata, Dr. Indranil Das, Senior Consultant – Emergency Medicine, Dr. Saurav Das, Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, Dr. Sujoy Das Thakur, Consultant & In-Charge – Emergency Medicine, Dr. Subhasish Deb, Consultant – Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur, Dr. Osama Ashfaque, Department Emergency, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria and Prof (Dr.) Rakhi Sanyal Dutta Sarma, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital, Broadway, and other eminent specialists graced the event on World Ambulance Day.

The purpose of the gathering was to honor the unselfish commitment of ambulance drivers, who are frequently the vital link between life and death while responding to medical emergencies. Manipal Hospitals wanted to thank the drivers and their families for supporting them despite their hectic and erratic schedules.

After an introduction that set the tone for the day, a Wellness Plan and Privilege Card for ambulance drivers and their families were introduced. Following that, excellent drivers were recognized for their dedication and hard work during a felicitation ceremony. Additionally, medics from Manipal Hospitals conducted Basic Life Support (BLS) training classes at the event, teaching drivers essential life-saving techniques. Following an educational session on Manipal Hospitals’ medical services, which raised awareness of emergency treatment, an ambulance rally was organized, signifying the quickness, readiness, and urgency that characterize a life-saving response. With family games and enjoyable activities, the day ended on a joyous note, promoting unity and paying tribute to the families that support our frontline soldiers in silence.

Every day, ambulance drivers save countless lives by responding quickly and calmly. They are frequently the initial medical contact in emergencies. Through this initiative, it is emphasized that they are important parts of the healthcare ecosystem and acknowledge their crucial contribution. Manipal Hospitals wants to empower these unsung heroes and improve emergency care from the first response by offering BLS training and helping their families.

Priyanka Dutta