C:F HEALTH SAVIOURS REPORT

Challenge:Future Action Team February 2012

byAfrinah Ahmed from PakistanAmmarah Ali from PakistanDharmesh Bhadja from India

Kaushal Joshi from IndiaJohanny Arilexis Perez Sierra from Dominican Republic

Reshma Surve from India

C:F Action Team #7, Health Saviours’ Report! 1

FORWARDWhat is C:F Action Team, Health Saviours?

Dr. Dharmesh BhadjaFebruary 2012

Do we have C:F Doctors like C:F writers? – This was the first pulse of Action Team #7 with an atypical name ‘Health Saviours’. “Yes! Why not.” This reply was followed by loads of brainstorming about what, why and how unique this Action Team is! I am more than delighted to take this opportunity to share the full pulsation of Health Saviours here in this compiled report.

What was so unique? Two things.

1. Health Articles: This time we have focused the health. Not only individual but care about community health. I must say the articles with adequate insights shared very valuable wisdom in various areas like Malnutrition, Sanitation, Mental Health and Health problems related to Disaster.

2. Interviews of the six different experts from various corner of the world, which we named as our Health Heroes. Articles motivate us for what to do and interview reports make us to learn about what are the actions needed for this holistic health care.

It was impossible without harmonious team work, submissions on time (even before time), feedback and free sharing to each other, technical corrections (personal thanks to Johanny here) and the invisible bond which we as a team feel with each other.

What we gained?

Overwhelming responses from readers, head scratching sharing on essential but untouched areas of health sector, very valuable guidance for actions needed and above all the tag “you are the CHANGE” from Andreja Kodrin, the force of whole C:F. After reading all articles and interview reports, let me to leave the question on reader only that, whether we achieved our objectives as per mentioned below or not?

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- To understand broader meaning of individual & community health

- To become more conscious through understanding the importance of various factors affecting health like food & nutrition, life style, mental state, socio-cultural values, exercises, sanitation etc.

- To implement Positive Move in life style & daily routine to prevent from prevailing diseases.

- To meet, appreciate and connect the people/team dedicated for better health of society. To form the integrated common ground to meet health related challenges, implementing effective plans dedicated to Health for all.

The six Health Tip Articles and six interview reports with experts are the outcome of truly dedicated hearts believe in action based learning and decided to create the healthier tomorrow. The C:F Action Team #7, Health Saviours is comprised of the following members:

1. Johanny Arilexis Perez Sierra from Dominican Republic

2. Afrinah Ahmed from Pakistan

3. Ammarah Ali from Pakistan

4. Kaushal Joshi from India

5. Reshma Surve from India

6. Me, Dharmesh Bhadja from India

I would like to outshine the big gratitude to Sayanee – the Gardner of Flowers of C:F and whole C:F team for their innumerable support for Health Saviours project.

I ope while reading through this, it will evoke passion amongst the many of you to go and add in your contribution in the emmense field of health. I wish you a reflective journey while you read through this Health Saviours’ Report!

~ Dr. Dharmesh,

Leader of C:F Action Team #7, Health Saviours

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Table of ContentsHealth Articles! 5

I’m the Miracle by Dharmesh! 6

Combating the silent emergency by Reshma! 8

Holistic Loom by Kaushal! 10

Community Waste and Sanitation Management by Johanny! 12

How to provide food to underprivileged by Ammarah! 14

Before and A"er story of Disaster by Afrinah! 16

Interviews with Health Heroes! 18

Interview with Dr. Saunil Malwania by Dharmesh! 19

Interview with Dr.Praful Barvalia by Reshma! 22

Interview with Prof. Dr. Steinmetz by Johanny! 25

Interview with Dr. Mushtaq by Afrinah! 28

Interview with Dr. Abbas by Ammarah! 31

Interview with Dr. Surve by Kaushal! 34

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Health ArticlesIn this section, we present you 6 thought-provoking articles written by all the 6 members of the Action Team. Hope this nudges you into reflection on the on-going issues faced by our world today!

1. I'm the Miracle by Dharmesh

2. Combating the silent emergency - Malnutrition by Reshma

3. Holistic Loom by Kaushal

4. Community Waste and Sanitation Management by Johanny

5. How to provide food to underprivileged by Ammarah

6. Before and After story of Disaster by Afrinah

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I ’ M T H E M I R A C L E B Y D H A R M E S H

I am convinced that He (God) does not play dice." - Albert Einstein

Here is the story of one entity. It has all the following characteristics altogether.

Efficiency, Management skills, planning, organisational skills, communication, teamwork, decision making, problem solving, analysis, performance reviews, auto feedback mechanism, harmony, productivity, prophecy, effective dealing with changes, self-recovery (up to certain extent) and sustainability etc.

Few details about this most complex and perfect product on this earth: (don’t just run with the facts, hold it one by one)

• The human brain cell can hold 5 times as much information as the Encyclopaedia Britannica

• Nerve impulses to and from the brain travel as fast as 170 miles per hour: just think about average speed of your car or bike and compare to feel the fact.

• Hair cannot be destroyed by cold, change of climate, water, or other natural forces and it is resistant to many kinds of acids and corrosive chemicals: what a material!

• The human heart creates enough pressure to squirt blood 30 feet!

• The acid in your stomach is strong enough to dissolve razor-blades, but never it's own parts through made up of very softer tissues: Amazing and Unbelievable.

• The human body is estimated to have 60,000 miles of blood vessels: the longest nonstop commercial flight between New York and Singapore is 19,050 miles!

• The surface area of a human lung is equal to a tennis court: means about 78 feet long and 36 feet wide.

• Scientists have counted over 500 different liver functions: and more yet to come!

• Approximately 75% of human waste is made of water

• Your teeth start growing 6 months before you are born.

• Your nose can remember 50,000 different scents: truly amazing mechanism.

• It needs the Coordination of 200 muscles to take one step.

• Bone is stronger than some steel

• Three hundred million cells die in the human body every minute: unbelievable!

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Just think about HOW!

And, yes the man in the mirror is the owner of this miraculous and magical human body! Feel it.

Feel happy, feel inspired, feel energetic (even though many things are yet to achieve in your life) every day and every moment that you are provided with most powerful resource on this earth. God created us with his utmost care and love. To REAL-ise that God maintain our body at each moment in most efficient and truly amazing way make our heart full of Blessed feeling.

Just getting birth, allow you to have this miracle. Being healthy is to maintain optimum functioning and working. Let us understand that Health is not the automatic process. We have to pay for it.

Say loudly everyday at least once in front of the mirror that I’ M MIRACLE.

We used to invest our time and money for profits and benefits. Isn’t it the very logical and reasonable to give time and work for our own healthy body? Don’t we need to work before it’s too late and disease enters in our body? It is our responsibility to take self care. Healthy & hygienic food & water, exercises, yoga, sustainable life styles, cleanliness, sanitation and waste management, sustainable development are various interconnected terminologies begins with self care.

Last two interesting facts, Over 90% of diseases are caused or complicated by stress. It takes 43 muscles to frown and only 17 to smile.

Keep Smiling. Take SELF-care.

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C O M B A T I N G T H E S I L E N T E M E R G E N C Y B Y R E S H M A

Let’s start with indisputable corroboration- “Good Nutrition & health are the fundamental human rights”.

Now, start counting the children around you, 1, 2, and 3. Every 3rd child is malnourished worldwide. The havoc is an average of one child per 30sec is killed with severe acute malnutrition, estimated 1 million children each year. These children are 20times more likely to die than healthy children.

Adding to this- poverty, hunger & malnutrition are cemented in a vicious cycle which makes these 30% of humanity vulnerable to disease & premature death. It plays a major role in half of the 10.4 million annual child deaths in the developing world; it continues to be a cause and consequence of disease and disability in the children who survive ultimately affecting the socioeconomic development of world.

Clinically, malnutrition is characterized by inadequate or excess intake of protein, energy, and micro-nutrients such as vitamins, and the frequent infections and disorders that result.

This is basically classified as Protein Energy Malnutrition (most lethal, affecting 150 milions worldwide) & Micro-Nutrients Defeciences like Iron, Iodine, vitamin-A & recently added -Obesity.

Determinants of malnutrition:

1. Maternal malnutrition

2. Recurrent infections

3. Inadequate dietary intake ,food insecurity

4. Insufficient health services

5. Inadequate education

6. Unhealthy environment & economic structure

Malnourishment is the contaminated soil which magnifies effect of every disease & creeping journey began itself in womb of malnourished mother ending into death, disability, stunted mental and physical growth and, finally, delayed national development

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We must also realize that resources allocated to preventing and eliminating disease will be effective only if the underlying causes of malnutrition and their consequences are successfully addressed.

Keys to alleviate:

1. Exclusive breast feeding till 6 mn

2. Prevention & management of Infections

3. Awareness of parents, health workers

4. Improving household food sanitation & hygiene

5. Assessing, analyzing and monitoring nutritional status

6. Effective Nutritional policies at all levels

The challenge increases in proportion to levels of civil instability, food shortage, inadequate aid delivery and access to health services.

The thrilling experience, I passed through while working in rural area is worth of sharing, A 5yrs old male child weighing 7kg (approximately expected -18kg) brought by mother who barely has food to abate their hunger. The empty hands & stomach were asking for his lost yrs while combating this cyclone of malnutrition & visiting regularly for frequent infections. Alas! The child was striving for his basic rights . Finally by orienting mother & health worker we manage to plan nutrition & infection strategy.

Identifying the nutrition as a core component for targeting the tide of malnutrition in 21st century, WHO supports its 191 Members States via its global and regional structure, collaborates with many international, nongovernmental organizations1.

We must ensure that our values and our vision are anchored in human rights law, only then can they become actuality for all people. A strong human rights approach is needed to bring on platform the millions of people left behind in the 20th century’s health revolution!

So, lets turn the tide!

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1 Malnutrition in India - impacts on health and education

H O L I S T I C L O O M B Y K A U S H A L

“What the mind dwells upon, the body acts upon” - Denis Waitley

Poor physical health can make individuals susceptible to poor mental health. Similarly, people living with mental health problems often live with physical health problems as well.

Compared with general population, people with severe mental illness lose 25-30 years of normal life-expectancy. Evidences show that persons with mental illness are at greater risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity.

( मन ऐव मन%&याण* कारण- ब/ध मो2यो

((((((((((((((((((ब/धया 3वषयअस7गो म%9तय 3न;वषय मनः

Mind is the cause of bondage and liberation. Therefore, the engaged mind in self-consciousness is the cause of supreme liberation, Indian scriptures-Upanishad.

Really, there is no health without mental health.

In the language of medical science, Health is not only physical but mental and social well-being (WHO). And more to that, Holistic health is a concept - upholding all aspects of people's needs into account and seen as a whole. Though physical and mental health is well-acclaimed, but little attention has been given to the interrelationship between the two.

“A Sound mind lives in a Sound body” - Swami Vivekananda

Have you ever felt HUNGRY? Not physically, but mentally? Here are the vitamins and nutrition for Powerful Mind which leads to Powerful Body too:

- Spread your SMILES... Apart from refreshing your mind, smile releases nitric oxide in brain which is cardio-protective, anti-inflammatory and prevents platelet aggregation. No one is born Happy, But all of us are born with the ability to create happiness. Let your smile change the world. :)

- GIVE GREETINGS... to parents/elders/teacher/saints everyday by touching their feet. It helps to dissolve ego and that’s way it keeps you away from many causes of mental problems.

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- Do “SURYA-NAMASKAR” (Salute to the Sun) & YOGA... Apart from physical health it cultivates gratitude and bliss within. And yes, don’t miss a dose of sunlight every day.

- Do at-least one thing in a day beyond self-interest.

- ENGAGE YOURSELF IN REALLY REFRESHING AND ADVENTURE... at least once in a week. Enjoy exercise, hobby, beauty of nature, everything.

- TREAT YOURSELF WELL... Cook yourself a good meal. Have a bubble bath. See a movie. Call a friend or relative you haven’t talked to in ages. Sit on a park bench and breathe in the fragrance of flowers and grass. Whatever it is, do it just for you.

- The belief “I am already beautiful” will prevent you from anorexia and bulimia.

- say THANKS and say SORRY... Feel and share gratitude and guilt.

This Anatomy of Healthy Habits for body & mind can help in preventing the recurrence of the disease in the patient as well as promoting health awareness at all levels. This approach will be emerging as an important milestone for health sector and will make a difference in the health sector of the world.

Let’s say with each and every cell of our body that “Let my care, remove the pain and bring smiles”.

Let us follow this path and God bless us to lead a noble life.

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C O M M U N I T Y W A S T E A N D S A N I T A T I O N M A N A G E M E N T B Y J O H A N N Y

Aspiring to a good quality of life includes a sort of issues; access to sanitation, clean water and waste management services has an important relevance to assure a general well-being.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) defines sanitation as the availability and accessibility of facilities and services that allow a safe disposal of wastes, so that a good health condition can be provided. The German Act about waste defines it as: “any material that can be discarded because it has become obsolete and has little or no value to the individual who discards it”.

Wastes have a wide branch of classification from domestic to health care and radioactive wastes. The United Nations (U.N.) estimates that worldwide annual waste production reaches more than 1 billion tons. The composition of these wastes include mainly: paper, food scraps and plastics. USA is the main producer of waste in the world, generating it at a rate of 730 kg/ inh.* year.

Improper waste management and lack of sanitation services can provoke serious health hazards, some cases are: wastewater streams with pharmaceutical pollutants from residential, industrial and agricultural sectors, also, leachate from landfills that are not properly drained or post-treated which can pollute underground waters, soils and its ecology, afterwards, people that are in contact with these water sources.

Most common water and sanitation related diseases include: diarrhoea, cholera, intestinal worms, schistosomiasis, trachoma, typhoid, hepatitis and ascariasis. According to the WHO, only diarrhoea causes 3% of all deaths worldwide, 99.7% of these deaths happen in developing

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countries and 94% of them occur among children; this is why in July 2010, the U.N. General Assembly approved by unanimity that access to clean water and sanitation is a human right.

Due to the serious impact of wastes and lack of sanitation have on health, it is important that not just policy makers, but also, each individual and community get concerned about them, so to protect our generation’s life.

A community sanitation initiative has been made from 2002 in Nepal, where only 39% of the population has access to latrines. With the support of humanitarian organizations, it has been installed a pilot project at Lalitpur district, installing more than 600 Ecosan (Ecological Sanitation) units which after sanitizing urines and faeces, treated safe products are used for agricultural processes2.

Here are some tips for youth health and environmentalists saviors:

1. Identify and get involved with young people, local leaders, or community programs that are already working on this issue locally.

2. Arrange public discussions on local waste situation and health risks. Raise awareness on the importance of waste classification and hygiene.

3. Before eating any fruit or fresh vegetable, wash them with plenty clean water.

4. Create a plan to collect recyclable wastes and a strategy for a profitable market and/or appropriate disposal.

If we start from a local and an individual attitude, it is possible to then create a big mass of aware and hygienic communities. Are you ready to assume the challenge for a sustainable community waste and sanitation management?

LET’S DO IT!!!

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2 Here is another community case of “Improving Education: Through Water & Sanitation in Bangladesh (BRAC)

H O W T O P R O V I D E F O O D T O U N D E R P R I V I L E G E D B Y A M M A R A H

Sunken eyes, pale skin, legs and arms like sticks, bloated stomach, and muscle wasting; these are some of the features of those unfortunate who do not have either enough or anything at all, to eat.

Malnutrition, hunger and starvation are major risks to health worldwide resulting, ultimately, in death.

You will be surprised that around the globe:

• 925 million people, do not have enough to eat and 98 percent of them live in developing countries.• Under nutrition contributes to five million deaths of children under five each year in developing countries.• 0.9 million children, under five, die in developing countries each year. Malnutrition and hunger-related diseases cause 60 percent of the deaths.

Throughout the world countless efforts are being done by the countries and welfare organizations to eradicate this menace. Like

The best example of recent advancement of political, social and organizational cooperation in fighting hunger and malnutrition is of Thailand which has decreased its prevalence of underweight from over 50%in 1982 to 10% in 1996 3. (

Also agricultural-nutrition advantage project was launched in 29 countries in Africa from 2001 to 2004 and achieved remarkable success within a relatively short time by linking agriculture and nutrition communities. (The Agriculture-Nutrition-Advantage)

Similarly what we need now are projects that will make the underprivileged stable on their own two feet rather than be dependent on simple food distribution and for that it is necessary that they should educated and taught how to be self sufficient.

There’s a saying:

‘Give man a fish and you will feed him for a day, teach him how to fish and you will feed him for a lifetime’ (Chinese proverb)

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3 Ending malnutrition by 2020: an agenda for change in the millennium

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Here are some tips as to how you can help them:

Give them food in return of their services or work. World Food Programme (WFP) is providing food by introducing different kind of projects like Food for assets, School meals, Cash and vouchers.

Provide tools of trade for earning, on easy installments, to those unemployed, because generally, most underprivileged people belong to the unemployed class of society. For example, provide a sewing machine or tools of crafts to a woman.

Help them to grow fruits and vegetables themselves in their own backyard. Provide them with materials such as fertilizers and seeds.

For Those people:

1 Who do not have any land.

2. Have land with infertile soil.

Techniques such as hydroponics and aeroponics (which are methods for growing plants without soil using nutrient solutions and alternative growing mediums) can be used. Singapore is now producing food from its residential and commercial rooftops through these methods. These techniques are used, according to global gardening project, by over 1000000 household in US for food production.

If successfully implemented, not only we will be able to provide food to them but also will provide a source of income for them.

So let’s work together in bringing smiles on those faces =D

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B E F O R E A N D A F T E R S T O R Y O F D I S A S T E R B Y A F R I N A H

Standing water act as breeding sites for mosquitoes, water-borne diseases, drowning, injuries & trauma, headache, fever, severe joint pain, swollen glands are common.

You must be wondering what is this all about?!

Well, ever wondered what life will be when there are NO disasters? Good quality of life? Clean air & water? Like Heaven it is! But NO, it can never be like that.

Earthquake, Tornado, Floods, Wildfire, Hurricane, Winter Freeze, Lightning, Volcano are disastrous disasters, out of which, earthquake & flood are most common.

An earthquake impacts a huge area, spanning whole city, at times, several cities too, causing the instantaneous damage to life and property. It may even cause Tsunami or can change land topography. There is no way to prevent or even predict it.

You may be amazed to know that:

1. There are about 500,000 earthquakes a year around the world.

2. San Francisco is moving towards Los Angeles at the rate of 2 inches/year and a city in Chile moved 10 feet in 8.8 magnitude earthquake.

All that people can do is to take precautions. There can be things done, like:

1. Have an ESCAPE plan and fire extinguishers nearby.

2. If you live near the coast, know the fastest route inland, because tsunami may not be far behind.

3. After earthquake, people should move outside of buildings in open spaces, and prepare themselves for aftershocks.

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Coming towards flood, flood is an overflow of water,causing outbreak of diseases. Most of the food items and Vehicles get damaged. Utility services are turned off. People, livestock, goods get drowned. It is not possible to prevent a flood, even if we know that it’s about to hit.

You may be amazed to know these facts too that:

95% of those killed in flood try to outrun the water along their path rather than climbing on higher places.

66 % of flood deaths occur in vehicles, when drivers try to navigate through flood water.

Just 6 inches of rapidly moving flood water can knock a person down.

A mere 2 feet of water can float a large vehicle even a bus.

However, there are certain actions that can be taken to reduce the impact.

1. Keep the drainage system clean.

2. Inspection and repair of dams and plant trees.

3. After flood, stay away from power and electrical wires.

4. Look for underground dangerous creatures.And do not walk through flowing water.

5. Be alert for gas leaks.

A terrible economic setback for the nation it may be, but I believe it could intensify the determination of people to rebuild their country. "Every tragedy in life shapes the future", depending on how you respond to it. I believe tragedy is meant to reaffirm the fact that life is worth living, regardless of the suffering that is a part of human existence.

I wish NONE of us go through such thing. Wish you all a happy Life! Cheers :D

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Interviews with Health HeroesIn this section, we present you 6 inspiring interviews conducted by our team members. Each of the interviewee is our mentor and inspiration who are tireless working in their dedicated fields of expertise. Hope this inspired you into action on the on-going health related issues faced by our world today!

1. Interview with Dr. Saunil Malwania by Dharmesh

2. Interview with Dr.Praful Barvalia by Reshma

3. Interview with Prof. Dr. Steinmetz by Johanny

4. Interview with Dr. Mushtaq by Afrinah

5. Interview with Dr. Abbas by Ammarah

6. Interview with Dr. Surve by Kaushal

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I N T E R V I E W W I T H D R . S A U N I L M A L W A N I A B Y D H A R M E S H

As part of the C:F Action Team #7, Health Saviours, I had the opportunity to conduct an Interview with Dr. Saunil Malwania, one my mentors and inspirations. Here I am presenting a short extract of the full interview. Enjoy and get the insights!

Q : Y O U R P E R S O N A L R O L E M O D E L A N D M O T I V A T I O N .If we start from the professional point of view, it is difficult to single out any one. I have many role models. Got impressed by the basic laws of Homeopathy when studying in first year college, the teacher explained it so logically. From there on, reading about the biographies, life sketches, I could imbibe the positive qualities of many Homeopaths. I would be able to relate more with the living and people with whom I had the opportunity to work with. My own father was a MBBS family physician. I have grown up watching him very closely. Some of his qualities are appreciated now when I am myself put into his situation. Some great physicians and Surgeons, while working in a hospital, influenced me with their work ethics and interpersonal skills.

I came in touch with Dr. B. P. Kothari who became the first person to introduce me to Institute of Clinical Research(ICR). Hearing from him about his first hand experiences and reading “The principles and Practice”, I would say, Dr. M. L. Dhawale has influenced my life to a great extent. Now that I get opportunity to interact with other ICR mentors and colleagues, I can say they are all my “role models”.

Coming to motivation, the biggest one is the smile a patient gives when he gets better. Nothing can motivate me more than bringing about a significant change in the life of a person by getting rid of the disease. Failures depress me and a simple satisfaction on face of a patient pushes me to work hard.

You would find a slogan written on my board – “Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” May be there is an element of Problem solving attitude that motivates me.

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Q : A C C O R D I N G T O Y O U , F U T U R E A N D S C O P E O F A L T E R N A T I V E S C I E N C E S L I K E H O M E O P A T H Y .As every idea that is closer to truth has a space in this world, Homeopathy has a very big space in the health sector. In the coming future, it is going to be the primary health service for anyone who knows about this science. I am sure with adequate information to the masses, Homeopathy should be able to become the first choice for treatment and the contemporary (Allopathic branch) would become an Alternative or complementary one. The need of the hour is to disseminate information on various alternatives to the lay people and allow them to choose the most “Rational one” - give people a chance to take an informed decision.

Q : H U R D L E S O F F A M I L Y P H Y S I C I A N A N D A N Y O F Y O U R I N T E R E S T I N G E X P E R I E N C E S E S P E C I A L L Y I N C O N T E X T O F H O L I S T I C M O D E L O F H E A L T H .There are many. I had a case from a village. The patient was a 30 year old ruffian kind of a man. He had come suddenly without any prior appointment. I was occupied with another case. I requested a fresh homeopath to take the case in another room. The patient was suffering from bleeding piles. The enthusiastic fresher started exploring the life space with some routine questions. Suddenly the patient stood up, annoyed and irritated, “What is the relation of my bleeding piles with my relations to my father? Do you want to treat my piles or should I leave?!!” You can imagine the plight of the young physician.

The idea of Holistic or ‘Wholistic’ model is ingrained with everyone. Since it is not practiced in contemporary medicine, it needs to be explained to the patient and then only the compliance follows. When the approach is ‘Wholistic’ combined with our first aphorism, whatever that follows is Holistic.

A standard has to be created to put this model in practice. Dr. M. L. Dhawale and ICR (Institute of Clinical Research) have inculcated the Indian philosophy into the art and science of homoeopathy to make this model operational. This road is difficult but not impossible.

There can be innumerable hurdles in life of any family physician. I would say, it is individually different with every physician. We are not performing a specific role as such. All the roles of the physician – friend, philosopher and guide are inter-related with each other and with his personal life as well. It is indeed difficult to keep water –tight compartments between them. While performing the role of a physician, we may have to see that the other roles are not neglected and the balance has to be maintained.

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Q : I F N O T A P H Y S I C I A N , T H E N , W H A T O T H E R V O C A T I O N Y O U W O U L D H A V E C H O S E N ?At the threshold of choosing a college, I was fascinated with the world of electronics. I would have gone into that I had not gotten impressed with the Homeopathic laws. I would have been working in some factory making electronic gadgets or Robots or repairing those inanimate objects!!!

Q : M E S S A G E F O R T H E Y O U N G P R A C T I T I O N E R S .Keep the first aphorism “the highest mission of the physician is to restore the sick to health” (Sir Samuel Hahnemann, Father of Homeopathy) in mind and direct all your actions through that. It is not necessary that you should be a clinician alone. You can go into various other fields namely research, management, social services etc. I firmly believe that if we make sincere efforts, we are definitely rewarded - either apparently or through events, sometimes we may consider them as “lucky”. There is nothing like luck, it is pure hard work and sincere efforts rewarded in one or the other way.

For the physicians who are keen on research, there is a huge scope. There is lot of need for reproving our drugs from Homoeopathic Materia Medica. Now with the help of computers, the task can be simpler and more systematic. One needs to follow the classical principles laid down for proving and not rely on any theories, hypothetical pictures, so called logical generalizations etc.

There are many other fields, but it must be borne in mind that somewhere, we need to sacrifice something to attain something. Ask your-self, are we ready for it?

Picture: Dharmesh (le"), our C:F Action Team, Health Saviour in the midst of the interview with Dr. Saunil Malwania (right)

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I N T E R V I E W W I T H D R . P R A F U L B A R V A L I AB Y R E S H M A

Dr. Praful Barvalia, MD Homoeopathy: - Chairman, Barvalia Foundation & Spandan Organizations, Centre of excellence in Child care & rehabilitation at Mumbai. This foundation is a registered public charitable trust established in February 1997 with the objective of promoting holistic health & value based education. I have completed my postgraduate Paediatric research project under his Guidance. His social work, Holistic Foundation is always inspiring for me, which I want to share here.

1 . W H A T I S Y O U R E X P E R I E N C E O F M A L N U T R I T I O N P R O J E C T A T M U M B A I S L U M S , & A B O U T C A U S E S , P U B L I C A W A R E N E S S , A N D M A N A G E M E N T D I F F I C U L T I E S I N M A L N U T R I T I O N ?We have been working for our public health initiative project with Ayush, titled “homoeopathic intervention in mainstream schools & community in urban slums for children with learning, developmental & mental health disorders”, where we work for children having Mental health disorder in main stream schools, community & urban schools. Now in urban slums we do encounter lot of cases of anemia & malnutrition so we expanded our project &incorporated anemia & malnutrition, because without adequate issues pertaining to nutrition whatever you do in respect to Mental health, will be in vain; so that’s how we wish to work in slums, then we need to add this aspect too. So we conducted various camps age wise, like we had Malnutrition camp in Mankhurd, Govandi. As you know that Mankhurd has replaced Dharavi for Asia’s Biggest Slum. Where Malnutrition issues are rampant. Our experience of working there since 10yrs have the observations, 61% of N-Ward & 69% of M-ward stay in urban slum. This is almost 2/3rd population. Majority are in BPL section.

In one camp, we had examined 125 children & 71% of them had certainly low Hemoglobin. All of them were treated homeopathically. Many received supplements too.

There we do come across different aspect of poor nutrition, sanitation, habits, addictions, socioeconomic factors are quite pronounced as people of BPL family contribute at larger extend. Interestingly in Mankhurd- Govandi Slums children start smoking, consuming alcohol, sniffing drugs at quite tender age- 7yrs & some of them are addicted by the time they cross 7yrs.This is also confirmed by us through observations, on 29th April 2011.

Helminthiasis, malabsorption and tuberculosis contribute too.

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The management part consists about the HOLISTIC APPROACH, as we have started with huge slums; some of them have great socio-political pressure & the kind of people have their own contribution. In such communities we have to deal with medical aspect of Homoeopathy in Malnutrition & Anemia, supplements & sanitation. Then our core area of activity focusing mental health, developmental issue & learning disorder. So from that we conducted series of seminars & workshops with teachers, parents. We have involved community leaders too.

In camp we focused a lot on nutrition & hygiene regularly. Monthly 1 session on nutrition & hygiene. Even we take classes of value education, anger management. We also tried to institute good habits in family & children. We give them incentives when we receive feedbacks that they have been following the instructions in respect to nutrition & hygiene. While arranging camp, special events of community can be utilized to distribute the educational banner, camp advertisements.

Specific malnutrition management is done at 3levels by our team- 1st at small household, whatever nourishing food they have & they are not adequately & consciously utilizing it. Like rich sources of protein-Sprouts, jaggary, egg etc. Finally promoting these habits at family level. 2nd in definite cases of nutritional deficiency we started with supplements & 3rd most important is providing homeopathic medications.

In around 1000 screening we have found 468 anemic children, it was not possible to record the cases at a single moment. We have carried out hemoglobin estimations & freely given the trial of homeopathic medicine which found to be beneficial. Practically it was not possible to study 400 cases in short span nor would those children were available for detailed constitutional prescribing.

Never the less constitutional prescribing has definite role to play as it will help to eradicate constitutional dyscresia and will enhance absorption. It will also improve immunity.

In number of observations the parallel relation between mental health & malnutrition can’t be ignored, they always go hand in hand.

“Empty stomach will corrupt the mind; corrupt mind will create problem for stomach.”

While dealing with the issues of mental health, malnutrition & hygiene the important contributing factors are genetic defects, large family size, antisocial elements- racism & religious conflicts, Lack of parental emotional care making children exposed to negative environment. Economical instability makes parents to be busy in jobs so children are not monitored properly. This results in the malnutrition again.

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2 . W H A T I S Y O U R M O T I V A T I O N T O W O R K F O R T H E S P E C I A L C H I L D R E N ?When I was in 7th std, one of my colleague was having dysmorphic (abnormal) features & he was poor at his performance. So I started teaching him he scored well in his exams & parents were really happy for this. I was touched with this incidence, as I was satisfied when I got to know my interest. Then I determined of making my way in this field. When I opened my clinic in 1990 in Garage I remembered, one case where that child was having asthma & hyperactivity. I could manage that case with homeopathy by 90%, but anyhow I observed that boy was having difficulty in perceiving. The child was in so called bright school where they rejected his admission. On special reference to other schools I managed to admit him in the good school. In the beginning I used to give my weekend to such children, as my interest started mounting with the support of my family I took the initiative for the “Spandan- the experience that heals holistically”. That’s how the journey begins to Holistic way.

3 . W H A T M A K E T H E P H Y S I C I A N C O N S I S T E N T I N H I S T A S K I N S P I T E O F F A I L U R E & S O Y O U R M E S S A G E T O O U R Y O U T H P R A C T I T I O N E R ?• The COMPASSION WITHIN will seek for the right opportunity & it will determine you to choose the right path for humanity.

• Passion, Patience, Perseverance & perfection are most crucial to achieve your objects.

• Do not get attracts by short term gains. Your value base of long term Vision will help you immensely

• Value additions to the services, you give to your patients. Eventually, this will help you to become their FRIEND, PHILOSOPHER & GUIDE and Success will be By Product.

Picture: Reshma (right), our C:F Action Team, Health Saviour in the midst of the interview with Dr. Praful Barvalia (le").

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I N T E R V I E W W I T H P R O F . D R . S T E I N M E T Z B Y J O H A N N Y

In order to have a better idea of the potential of developing countries to engage its youth population in topics of sanitation, and how to bring feasible technologies from good results in developed countries, on December 16th, 2011; it was held an interview with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Heidrun Steinmetz, who is the Chairholder for Sanitary Engineering and Water Recycling at Institute for Sanitary Engineering, Water Quality and Waste Management (ISWA) a pioneering institute in this issue in Germany and Europe. But also, Prof. Steinmetz is my Professor of Wastewater Technology at University of Stuttgart, thus is a pleasure having the opportunity to get her insights in this matter and bringing you fresh ideas to tackle waste water related problems, specially in developing countries.

1 . H O W T O M A K E A C C E S S I B L E W A S T E W A T E R T R E A T M E N T T E C H N O L O G I E S T O D E V E L O P I N G C O U N T R I E S ?From my focus, in the research area, at the moment to transfer any technology, it is very important to consider climate conditions, cultural aspects and organizational management in the local communities for the waste water treatment technologies and its maintenance. Experiences working in international projects, have shown that local Universities should be involved , because being foreigners, it becomes relevant to have common research and local administration in the countries abroad. Then, it can be developed technologies regarding to each conditions. Besides adapting the technology, it should be inserted per modules, integrating local people, and having “flexible systems”, so communities see the insertion of new technologies as part of a process. “It is not sufficient to have Know how, financial means, and appropriate infrastructures for water supply and waste water disposal, it will inevitably fail if not accompanied with efficient organizational structures”.

2 . I S T H E R E A N Y M A R K E T O P P O R T U N I T Y I N T H I S S E C T O R ?Definitely there are, one example is the so known ECOSAN. In order not just to transfer the so called ”concentional” systems which have set up in the western countries over decades, we should overcome the disadvantages of theses systems and develop alternative approaches. An important principle is to separate domestic waste water streams at their origin and develop appropriate treatment technologies and concepts for reuse and closing the loops. The main market opportunity in this sector, it is as consultants, offering the concepts and strategies for a concrete technology and then, for its maintenance. Also, presenting advice to decision makers at the moment to build new infrastructures.

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3 . H O W C A N Y O U T H B E L I N K E D I N T H E P R O M O T I O N O F S A N I T A T I O N , W A S T E W A T E R M A N A G E M E N T A N D D E V E L O P M E N T ?Being realistic, it should be considered that this subject is not so appealing to young people, but then, it is a responsibility of decision makers and those involved with the educational sector on each country, to raise awareness among the population regarding the relevance of having a clean environment and waste water treatment facilities. If starting from Kinder Garden, then, it is possible to think on a new generation of more committed youth in the sector of sanitation. Young people can be creative and help to develop new technologies, and after a solid formation help to identify solutions in this matter; also, considering that different backgrounds offer an opportunity to see several approaches that can be feasible to particular conditions. If it is shown to the population the beauty of nature versus the impact that might be caused on it and on health due to low sanitary strategies, with time, people will start changing their behaviors. Young generation will be better educated partly abroad, and can contribute significantly to the implementation of better and more sanitation in their home countries.

4 . W H A T A R E T H E M A I N T H R E A T S O F P O O R S A N I T A T I O N F O R Y O U T H ? / H O W C A N I T B E T A C K L E D ?"Life quality depends substantially on the availability of water supply and waste water disposal”. Poor sanitation is a threat in whole population, however, youth and children are more susceptible in developing countries, where statistics show higher mortality rates compared to developed ones. To tackle it, good hygienic habits should be inculcated to the populations, from early stages, for example, in schools.

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5 . W H A T I S T H E R E L A T I O N S H I P O F S A N I T A T I O N A N D B E T T E R F O O D Q U A L I T Y ?In some developing countries untreated waste water is used for irrigation to grow more food. This situation has to be changed. Treatment is necessary before reuse, but, if a certain hygienic standard is researched- like recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) -nutrients from the treated wastewater can contribute as fertilizer in agriculture and the water can be used for irrigation. Then, sanitation can lead to more food and a better food quality. However, appropriate technologies should be employed and people should be trained to have good use of them in order to avoid any potential risk with pollutants and pathogens in the reused water.

Picture: Johanny (right), our C:F Action Team, Health Saviour in the midst of the interview with Prof. Steinmetz.(le").

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I N T E R V I E W W I T H D R . M U S H T A Q B Y A F R I N A H

I interviewed Dr. Rehana Mushtaq on 25 December 2011. She is currently working at Civil hospital Karachi in Observation unit II and I trust her with medicines. My aim was awareness and to know Better Health Measures in cost effective manners and I think i am little successful in this.

1 . I S I T P O S S I B L E T O D I A G N O S E T H E I N F E C T E D P E R S O N W I T H O U T H A V I N G H I G H C O S T T E S T S ?It is not imperative or absolutely necessary to diagnose a disease using costly tests. In my opinion, a good history reports and clinical exams helps a lot; but still confirmation for few diseases do need high costs tests. Moreover, It is very helpful to know the symptoms and signs from patient in diagnosing the causes of health problem.

2 . W H A T S I D E E F F E C T S O R C H A N G E S S H O U L D B E R E P O R T E D T O D O C T O R ?Well, anything that bothers a patient can and must be reported to a doctor. What are doctors for ? They are the in charge of patients health and they definitely will take best decisions about them. Here are some of the symptoms signaling that your body may need a visit to doctor. But there are other diseases too that are not listed here and they may give rise to the similar symptoms.

• Headache, Depression or Stress may be because of hypertension and Hypertension can lead to Stroke.

• Yellow discolouration of sclera (white outer wall of eye) may be because of Liver or pancreatic disease.

• Blood stained nasal secretion may be because of some local infections, bleeding disorders, malignancy (Nasopharyngeal Cancer).

• Decreased appetite may possibly be because of Malignant Cancer, Stress or Depression.

• Often thirst may be because of Diabetes Mellitus.

• painless lump in neck may be because of Thyroid disease (goiter).

• Persistent cough may be because of chronic lung disease, Cancer or Pulmonary Tuberculosis.

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• Shortness of breath may be because of acute attack of Asthma, severe Anaemia, pulmonary edema, embolus or Lung Cancer.

• Chest pain is often a sign of Coronary or cardiac disease. It may also be because of Peptic Ulcer or Gastric Reflux.

In general, Eyesight problems, Hearing problems, Problems with reflexes and range of motion and Problems with memory must be reported to doctors.

3 . 3 R D W O R L D I S F A C I N G P R O B L E M S , H E A L T H I S T H E B I G G E S T O N E , W H A T D O T H I N K C A N B E T H E B E S T S O L U T I O N F O R I T ?To provide with awareness to patients through community programs and basic health units is the best solution. Media has its efficient role too.

On government level build clinics and schools. Provide doctors and teachers. Provide clean drinking water. Give handouts and charity. Improve its living conditions and the lifestyle and health.

Doctors can only go there and help them maintain their health. Rest is in the hands of youth and current governments.

4 . C A N D O C T O R S P E R F O R M T H E T E S T O R T R E A T M E N T I N L I M I T E D R E S O U R C E S ?Resources are not that big of an issue, medical students are taught how to make the most of what they have in the worst possible scenarios. In my opinion, there are always alternatives, if people could to a century back, it can still be done today.

But that’s a fact too that due to limited resources the number of death is rising every day.

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5 . I S I T P O S S I B L E T O U S E L O W C O S T M E D I C I N E S & N A T U R A L H E R B S T O T R E A T P A T I E N T S ?Obviously, it is possible, as medicines' prices continue rising , the cost of treating a illness may become a serious burden.

We sure can use low price medicines but always be wary of drug samples from your doctor. Drug companies provide doctors with samples of medications that they are trying to promote. These are new, expensive medications that do not have any generic versions. Also ignore drugs from drug advertising's. Pharmaceutical companies spend millions of dollars each year to advertise their new medications. Try changing your lifestyle. Many chronic health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, coronary artery disease, and hypertension, are related to our lifestyle, including smoking, being overweight, and lack of exercise. You can improve your health by making healthy changes, and these may allow you to decrease or get off of some of your medications, with your doctor's approval.

Picture: Afrinah (right), our C:F Action Team, Health Saviour in the midst of the interview with Dr. Rehana Mushtaq (le").

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I N T E R V I E W W I T H D R . A B B A SB Y A M M A R A H

As a member of action team 7 member I decided to interview Dr. Zia Abbas. He is the head of department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Department in Dow University of Health Sciences. The interview was conducted on 30th October 2011.

1 . A C C O R D I N G T O Y O U W H A T I S T H E M O S T I M P O R T A N T S T E P T A K E N I N T H E F I E L D O F D E N T I S T R Y ?I think the recent development and promotion of International and National conferences which contribute in motivating different kinds of researches is the most important step taken in the field of dentistry. Research element is important in the current era. Different platforms coming together not only to share knowledge but also experiences is the need of today. Symposiums on different topics and theme are being conducted throughout the world on both national and international level and I think that individual efforts, colleges, and HEC (higher education commission) all working together can really take it far and tackle the problems faced in modern dentistry.

2 . W H A T I S T H E O R A L H E A L T H A W A R E N E S S I N P A K I S T A N O N A S C A L E O F 1 - 1 0 W I T H 1 B E I N G T H E L O W E S T ?Awareness about oral hygiene is very poor in the country. On the scale I would say it would be 3. The reason being there is lack of proper education about oral health and the importance of dental treatment. Even well educated people are ignorant and negligent about oral health care. People only come to dentists when they cannot bear the pain further otherwise they usually choose to ignore it. That concept needs to be changed because people don’t realize that the more they delay, less are the chances to fully restore the teeth.

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3 . W H A T S T E P S S H O U L D B E T A K E N T O I N C R E A S E T H E A W A R E N E S S A M O N G P E O P L E ?Media, magazines, Internet are the most important sources through which the information about oral health care can be spread and they have been spreading awareness for a quite some time.

Nowadays you can see advertisements about different types of toothpastes and toothbrushes.

We are in need of more health channels and more programmes especially regarding the consequences of usage of paan ( also known as betel quid), chalias (betel or areca nut) and guktas (is a preparation of crushed areca nut (also called betel nut), tobacco, catechu,paraffin, lime and sweet or savory flavorings) among the children.

The researches show that children start eating these things about the age of 4 and they do so after seeing their parents or their friends eating them. You can find school children having chalias and gutkas packet in their pockets and the whiteness on the angels of mouth with limited mouth opening. The parents do not realize that it is a predisposing factor that can lead to oral sub mucous fibrosis (OSF) and then into fully developed oral cancer and this ignorance can become a big problem. There have been a number of cases where the patient came to OPD (out patient department) with the fully developed oral cancer and the end result was the death of the patient.

Talk shows should be done and ways to gain public attraction on this issue should be sought.

Campaigns should be organized along with walks.

Days, dedicated to stop the usage of tobacco products and other harmful materials such as pan and gutka should be made.

Pamphlets and posters should be distributed in concerned masses.

School awareness is the most important step that should be taken because like I said the children of this age group are more prone in becoming an addict to these things.

As dentists in whatever step up we are working in we can make boards and slogans, discouraging the use of harmful products.

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4 . W H A T A R E T H E R E S E A R C H E S H A V E Y O U W O R K E D O N A N D W H A T A R E T H E R E S E A R C H E S A R E Y O U L O O K I N G F O R W A R D I N S E E I N G I N T H E F U T U R E ?Mostly I have worked on trauma cases and deal with clinical side and cases, so research has not been my top priority.

But right now I am doing a research along with my biochemistry colleague from Baqai Medical and Dental College. It focuses on how to inhibit OSF (Oral Sub-mucous Fibrosis) by healthy habits and healthy eating. The topic is role of antioxidants & trace elements (zinc, silver, selenium) in inhibiting OSF.

Yeah there are a lot of researches I am looking forward to but first most on the topic is “how to inhibit cancer” because that’s one of the problems worldwide that needs to be addressed. Researches which can help in promoting public awareness about oral hygiene and oral hygiene care. Researches, concentrating on, how to restore oral health in a better way and oral rehabilitation. Researches are needed to be done exploring the role of dental personals in improving oral health.

I'm also looking forward to the symposiums those are conducted through out the year on unique and challenging topics like the one that our institute is having in November on "promoting excellence in health care".

5 . W H A T W A S Y O U M O S T I N S P I R I N G E X P E R I E N C E ?In 1985 I treated a patient of trigeminal neuralgia in Sialkot. Before moving from Sialkot I had written my new address and given to him in case he needed it in the future. After 18 years we met by chance. The patient recognized me and told me that even after 18 years he still had that paper on which I wrote him my address. This was really a joyful and moving experience.

Picture: Ammarah (le"), our C:F Action Team, Health Saviour in the midst of the interview with Dr. Zia Abbas (right).

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I N T E R V I E W W I T H D R . S U R V E B Y K A U S H A L

Dr. Reshma Surve - M.D. Homeopathy (Paediatrics): Dr. Reshma did post-graduation from Centre of excellence awarded MLD Homeopathic institute, Mumbai and was junior research fellow there. Currently she is working as a medical-officer in the department of paediatrics at the urban and rural units of the same institute. Profound love towards children gives strength to Dr. Reshma for providing best health care to the children of rural India. Here is the gist of her insightful interview.

Q . H O W D O Y O U O V E R C O M E T H E H U R D L E S T H A T C O M E I N T O Y O U R S E R V I C E P A T H A S Y O U A R E W O R K I N G I N R U R A L I N D I A ?Perseverance is the soil on which the flowers of victory blossom.

I think the process which you want to transfer outside should be internalized first. Any difficulty is solved with the quality of perseverance, patience & faith.

The strategy for overcoming hurdle starts with the defining targeted area and to study that community. Second important thing is to work with the team- which consists of the people amongst that community. This will bridge the gap. Third is regularly communication & follow-up. Finally, evaluating the input-output of the services provided to the needy.

Apart from this, meeting these people on the festival occasions, talking in their language & behaving in their ways help to fill the gap. Consequently the difficulties find their ways of communication with us.

All verbal & nonverbal expressions make their way through observations so strengthening the power of successful prescription day by day gives the strength.

Subsequently the journey always becomes adventurous & surprising, where you just enjoy the path without expecting the rewards. I see the glare of relief in their innocent eyes & smile which again motivate me to work for humankind.

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Q . W H A T I S Y O U R P E R S O N A L V I S I O N ? W H A T I S T H E M E S S A G E /T I P Y O U W A N T T O T R A N S M I T T O S O C I E T Y F O R B E T T E R L I V I N G /L I F E / H E A L T H ?The Luck will always work by chance but for the consistent result perseverance is mandatory. Face the fears as much as you can and one can know about their hidden potential. Try the different ways to face your difficulties & make the choices before something is imposed on you. The lesson I learned while treating through the homoeopathy is – To keep transparency & faith in your action which will surly give you the result. The action counts in the life & not the words.

As I think homoeopathy is the most innocent way to serve the children, I wish to work for providing best opportunity of education to poor children, founding the holistic trust for the comprehensive development of them, making researches in the miraculous areas of homeopathy & to work as a responsible physician to reduce the morbidity & mortality, founding the common platform to share the miracles of the homoeopathy.

Message to the society- Set a goal in life. To achieve that goal, acquire the knowledge, work hard and when problem occurs, defeat it and succeed. Always keep self, home, surroundings, neighbourhood and environment clean. Lead an honest life.

Picture: Kaushal (Le"), our C:F Action Team, Health Saviour in the midst of the interview with Dr. Reshma.(Right).

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On this instance of conveying thankfulness and adoration, let us assure that this is not the close but the first step of Health Saviours.

Till miles to go! Are you with us?

Thank you!

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