Reaching Out… Building Strength Within

The last quarter of 2008 was a busy time for the Calbayog community. We connected with people through outreach activities and bolstered our inner strength through healthcare awareness talks and seminars. Just to note some, last Oct. 31, 2008, St. Camillus Hospital (SCH) in collaboration with Samar Medical Society (SMS) hosted a Scientific Meeting and Fellowship Night which provided an extensive update on Stable Angina. The occasion was well-participated in by the SCH community and was graced by the presence of consultants from different hospitals. On Nov. 6, a health care forum in which Jose Galvez-Tan, former DOH Secretary, talked about the current health situation.

On Nov. 21 and 22, some doctors, nurses and other volunteers went to Almagro, a nearby island, for a medical mission.  The team encountered rather strong forces of nature. The sea was quite unfriendly but it did not stop the 20 courageous men and women of SCH from lending a hand to the sick in the island. The residents whole-heartedly appreciated the medical, dental, laboratory and ECG services they received. The medical mission was an opportunity to witness to the spirit of St. Camillus and promote the services of SCH in Calbayog.

SCH also promotes the capability building of its staff and personnel through a regular education program. On Dec. 8-9, it hosted a Basic Life Support Training (BLST) which was also attended by hospital staff from other medical institutions like OLPHI, Sanitarium and Calbayog General Hospital.

We began 2008 with many outreach activities and ended it as well in that way. Last Dec. 27, we conducted another medical mission in Pagbalikan, a poor barangay located several kilometers from SCH.  It was a challenging activity; we walked through muddy pathways and rice fields. But it was also a fulfilling mission; everyone came home with a smile.

Christmas Time…

Christmas this year had a different color. The SCH community organized a choir for a special mission. From December 16 to 19, the choir visited friends to share the joy of Christmas. After office hours, they caroled from house to house, and went home late. Thanks to all of them who disrupted the silence of the town with their singing. They did sing well, using their talents to the max. It was really a time to shine? But you know, it was not all about that… What they received from the families they visited was intended for people in need. The proceeds were used for gift-giving in two barangays and in the Calbayog City Jail.

Aside from visiting friends, we also spent quality time together, to feel and experience once again the family Christmas at SCH. Dec. 18 was a good time; we dined together and shared our joy and laughter. The organizers also hosted a special party for the children of the employees. Our special thanks to the donors, the former employees of SCH, and other generous people who shared their resources for the purchase of Christmas gifts for 100 kids.