In an act of extraordinary generosity, a retired gynaecologist from Berhampur, on the cusp of her 99th birthday, has pledged a monumental sum to advance women's healthcare in Odisha. Dr K Lakshmi Bai, a former professor, has donated Rs 3.40 crore to AIIMS Bhubaneswar to establish a specialised course in gynaecologic oncology.
A Lifelong Commitment to Women's Health
Dr Lakshmi Bai's philanthropic gesture is rooted in decades of medical practice where she witnessed firsthand the suffering caused by cancer. She expressed that she encountered numerous women battling the disease, many of whom succumbed due to a lack of proper treatment. "I wish the amount is utilised for the benefit of such poor and helpless women," she stated, highlighting the core motivation behind her donation. Alongside the major contribution to AIIMS, she also donated Rs 3 lakh to the Berhampur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society. This fund is specifically earmarked for adolescent vaccination drives aimed at preventing cancers among women.
Institutional Recognition and Future Plans
The management at AIIMS Bhubaneswar has warmly welcomed this significant contribution. Dr Saubhagya Kumar Jena, head of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology, acknowledged the donation in an appreciation letter, stating, "We appreciate the kind gesture of Dr Lakshmi Bai for the noble cause." The cheque was formally received on a Friday. Meanwhile, the Berhampur society's secretary, Indira Pal, confirmed that a plan for the optimal use of the Rs 3 lakh donation for cancer vaccination would be chalked out in consultation with members.
Doctors from AIIMS are expected to attend a function at Dr Lakshmi Bai's residence in Bhavnagar, Berhampur, organised by her former students. During this event, P Bharati, one of her students, mentioned that the doctors would disclose their detailed plan for utilising the donated funds.
A Distinguished Medical Career
Dr K Lakshmi Bai's journey in medicine is as remarkable as her donation. Born on December 5, 1926, she was part of the pioneering first MBBS batch at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, in 1945. She further specialised, earning her MD in obstetrics and gynaecology from the prestigious Madras Medical College in 1958.
Her government service commenced in 1950 with a posting as a doctor at Sundargarh government hospital. She served with distinction across various hospitals and medical colleges, culminating her formal career with retirement from MKCG Medical College and Hospital in 1986. Her expertise and service were recognised internationally through visits to several countries, and she was felicitated by numerous organisations across India.
This landmark donation from a nearly centenarian doctor not only provides crucial resources for fighting gynaecological cancers but also stands as a powerful testament to a lifetime dedicated to healing and empowering women.
