In the early 90s, Dr. Martin Jerry (extreme left in the pic), initiated the dialogue with Tom Baker Cancer Center, Canada to facilitate a cancer program of Garhwal Himalayas. The seed sown by Swami Rama’s blessings blossomed into the full blown center now named as the Cancer Research Institute (CRI). One of the largest in northern India, it has state of the art facilities, while catering to the poorest of the poor.
RDIs small service contribution towards this cause has been to enable training of ASHAs, palliative care orientation both in communities and with other organisations and art therapy for children in the cancer ward as also fulfilling their small wishes.
Frontline health-workers (known as ASHAs) were sensitized on palliative care so that they could assist those needing care within the communities. A learning booklet was developed for them. An evidence based study was conducted for the elderly in specific areas of Haridwar.
Outreach camps for cancer screening are also organized in the hill regions facilitating treatment of screened patients at Cancer Research Institute of SRHU. Audio-visuals and print material are regularly developed for awareness generation and dissemination of information among general public.
