Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 29: KIMSHEALTH launched ‘Trek FAST’, a trekking initiative aimed at raising awareness about stroke, its warning signs, and the importance of timely medical intervention. The programme was inaugurated by Shibu Baby John, Minister for Forests and Wildlife Protection.
Dr. M. I. Sahadulla, Group Chairman and Managing Director , KIMSHEALTH, presided over the function. Vishal Maheshwari, Cluster CEO, India 3, Aster DM Quality Care, delivered the Keynote Address. ‘Trek FAST’, is a 14 kilometer trek through the Arippa forest range, with more than fifty trekkers participating in this awareness campaign.
In his Presidential address, Dr. Sahadulla said,
“Stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that can affect individuals of any age. Recognising the risk factors and early warning signs is essential. Patients must be taken to a specialised stroke centre equipped with advanced facilities to ensure appropriate care within the golden hour.”
Minister Shibu Baby John, while inaugurating the programme, highlighted the growing burden of lifestyle diseases and emphasised the importance of reconnecting with nature as a way to address these challenges. “Our growing disconnect from nature is having far-reaching consequences. Human activities have contributed significantly to environmental degradation, and it is our collective responsibility to address these challenges, and preserve our natural resources.. The ‘Trek Fast’ awareness initiative, which promotes health and encourages people to experience nature firsthand, is a meaningful step in this direction. I extend my best wishes for the success of this initiative.” the Minister said. He further emphasised the need to cultivate a culture of responsible trekking and assured support in facilitating the necessary permissions and arrangements for trekking in forest areas.
Delivering the keynote address, Vishal Maheshwari, said that all 39 hospitals under Aster DM Quality Care are conducting initiatives to promote stroke awareness , reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to addressing critical health challenges. “Raising awareness about stroke is essential to protecting the lives of our loved ones, and ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.” He added that Aster DM Quality Care strives to deliver excellence in healthcare through skilled medical professionals, advanced technology and state-of-the-art facilities, with a strong focus on improving patient outcomes.
Dr. S. Syamlal, Senior Consultant and Group Coordinator, Neurology, KIMSHEALTH, welcomed the gathering. E. M. Najeeb, Co-founder, KIMSHEALTH, offered felicitations. Dr. Suresh Chandran C J, Senior Consultant, Neurology, proposed the vote of thanks.
