A Light of Life Trust event at NCPA, Mumbai on Oct 18
Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, July 31, 2024
The Mumbai-based Light of Life Trust is organising a musical fundraiser at the National Centre for Performing Arts in Nariman Point.
The event is being organised on October 18, 2024, by the Light of Life Trust, a charitable organisation at the forefront of social and community initiatives.
With a steadfast commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities and care for palliative patients, the Trust aim to make the evening memorable with performances by renowned artists Javed Ali and Disha Mudda, featuring a variety of acts ranging from solo performances to ensembles.
This fundraiser aims to generate much-needed funds to support the hospice care facility and other initiatives under Project Aangan.
The Trust has appealed to New Zealanders and people of Indian origin to support the event with their contributions.
“We need to bring comfort and dignity to those in need of palliative care,” Ramesh Daswani, Chief Executive of the Trust told Indian Newslink.
Aangan: A Beacon of Hope
Aangan is a dedicated hospice care facility in Mumbai aimed at serving underprivileged communities.
This initiative is driven by an interdisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and social workers who provide comprehensive care. The team focuses on symptom management, pain relief, and holistic support for both patients and their families.
Project Aangan also offers vital services such as counselling, education, and support to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of serious illnesses. By ensuring access to these services, the team aims to provide the best possible care and improve the quality of life for those facing life-limiting conditions.
The Trust runs programmes to help secondary school dropout children complete their studies and secure gainful employment. It works with schools to empower teachers and management, enhancing the quality of education provided in rural schools.
The Trust emphasises empowering women and unemployed youth. The organisation conducts various skill development and vocational training programs, enabling women to become self-reliant and contribute to their families and communities.
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About the Light of Life Trust
The Light of Life Trust was established in 2002 by Villy Doctor, a visionary with a passion and dedication to improve the lives of the less fortunate in communities.
“Since then, the Trust has made significant strides in its mission to uplift marginalised populations from rural India and create a brighter future for those in need. With experience in social work and a deep empathy for the disadvantaged, Ms Doctor embarked on a remarkable journey to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals,” Mr Daswani said.
He said that her commitment to social causes and her belief in the power of Education, Livelihood Skilling, Healthcare and Environment Conservation, to bring about lasting change have been the driving forces behind the success of the Light of Life Trust.
“Under her leadership, the organisation has grown and expanded its reach to touch the lives of many in need. Her tireless efforts to address the issues of poverty, illiteracy, and lack of access to healthcare have inspired many others to join the cause and contribute towards positive social change,” he said.
Palliative Care in India
Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses by managing symptoms, providing pain relief, and offering emotional and psychological support to patients and their families.
The gap between the demand and supply of palliative care in India highlights the urgent need for more palliative care facilities and services across the country.
“Access to primary healthcare is a fundamental human right, and the Light of Life Trust is committed to delivering medical care to underserved communities. Through mobile medical vans, healthcare facilities, and medical camps focusing on eye, dental, and cardiac care, we are proud to promote health and hygiene practices in marginalised areas, fostering overall well-being,” Ms Doctor said.
Environment Conservation
Working closely with marginalised farmers, The Trust provides fruit-bearing saplings to offer additional income and increase green cover. It employs the Miyawaki forest technique to enhance green spaces and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to environmental conservation.
For underprivileged communities in India, the situation is dire, with solutions required from all agencies, as they often lack access to even essential healthcare services. Palliative care for these communities is not just about managing pain, but also about addressing the social, economic, and emotional challenges that come with severe illness. By providing comprehensive care and support, palliative care can significantly improve the quality of life for underprivileged patients and their families, ensuring they receive the dignity and comfort they deserve in their most vulnerable times.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
