“There was a doctor who treated patients for 50 ps in your village. Do you know him? Is he your relative?” An old man who came for consultation asked my dad. “Well, he is my father!” my dad replied with a smile. Although I’ve not seen my grandfather, I have heard a lot about him. He died at the age of 45 when his eldest daughter was just 15 years.
My grandfather Mr Neelakantan was born in an orthodox Brahmin family. He did not even get a chance to do schooling. But he had a great determination and dedication towards society. In those days, Brahmins were allowed to gain knowledge of only Sanskrit and Vedic texts. He learned all subjects from his home in spite of the objection from family. Finally he became a medical practitioner. The medicines that he gave to his patients came from abroad. I don’t think our generation can even imagine such a patience and willpower. Later my dad became a physician after completing graduation in medical science. Today he has over 30 years of experience treating various kinds of ailments.
Born in a doctor’s family, I was not able to spend my school vacations in hill stations or other tourist centers. When my friends tell me of the wonderful places they have seen, I used to feel sad during my childhood days. But today I am in a state to understand the pressure and commitment of a doctor’s job. Even if I picked a different profession, I always admire doctors and modern medicines. They are simply giving their life and days to serve others.
Again as a doctor’s daughter, I knew how to take care of health. Until a particular age, I haven’t tasted ice cream. Similarly we rarely buy bakery items at home. At times I have felt bad that I am not able to dance in the rain because of my health consciousness. Yet everything is fine and well for me till now. I am always proud to say the tradition of medical service will continue in my family through my brother. My sibling is a medical student. He will complete his course within 2 years. Though I am not into medical field, I am sure that I might also get blessings for supporting my dad and brother in their noble cause.
At this time, I could hear our phone ringing. When I picked it, a lady at the other end asked, “I called to ask if doctor will be there at home now. My baby is sick and so we need to meet him soon”. I replied, “Yeah sure! Please come”. It is time for me to clean my dad’s consultation room and welcome a fellow mother and her baby.
(This post is written for Indiblogger's "How does Modern Healthcare touch lives?" competition in association with Apollo Hospitals