KOCHI: When Abdul Rahim, a captain of the Afghan National Army, shook hands with Manu T R at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) here, it was a historical moment for the hospital as well as the State.
Rahim and Manu, who underwent hand transplantation at the hospital a year ago, are more than excited about the fact that they both were now leading normal life.
Though they did not speak at the function organised at the hospital on Thursday to felicitate them, the exuberant expression on their faces was enough proof of their gratitude, especially towards Amrita Hospital.
Manu, who underwent treatment at the hospital free of cost, was recently appointed as transplant assistant at Amrita. Captain Abdul Rahim, who lost his hand while defusing a bomb, is all set to join the Afghan Army within a couple of days.
At the function, The New Indian Express Resident Editor Vinod Mathew was the chief guest. Mata Amrithananda Math general secretary Sampoojya Swami Purnamritananda Puri also attended the function.
“The efforts made by media to create awareness on hand transplant and organ donation have been influencing the public in a very positive way. It is one of the key factors that made our efforts successful,” said Dr Subramaniya iyer, under whose leadership the surgery was conducted. Dr Prem Nair also attended the function. Speaking on the occasion, Vinod Mathew said while disseminating sensational news, media should also give space for such positive news items.