THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
KIMSHEALTH Jaipur Foot Centre, a voluntary unit of KIMSHEALTH donated prosthetic legs to 15 persons at a function here, taking the total number of beneficiaries to 500 since the launch of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) scheme in January 2019.
KIMSHEALTH Chairman and Managing Director Dr M I Sahadulla said the aim behind the free distribution of artificial limbs is to help the needy persons from the deprived community.
“I am happy that the 500 people who have received prosthetic legs are now living their life with ease and confidence,” he said, adding: “KIMSHEALTH plans to distribute 1,000 artificial limbs this year.
Armed Police Battalion Deputy Inspector General P Prakash, who delivered the inaugural address at the function, lauded KIMSHEALTH’s ‘proud mission for social good’.
KIMSHEALTH Chief Operating Officer Reshmi Aysha said it is the only institution in Kerala that distributes artificial limbs free of cost as part of its voluntary activities. “We are distributing artificial limbs worth over Rs 50,000 in the market, free of cost. The eligibility for the free donation of limbs is determined by organising camps and through direct registration,” she added.
Artificial limbs are made available within two weeks to anyone who is selected, regardless of their social status. Free service is provided for the maintenance of limbs for one year after distribution. KIMSHEALTH also offers the recipients free training, maintenance, and consultation with expert doctors.
KIMSHEALTH Orthopedic Consultant Dr Madan Mohan said the prosthetic legs can be used for up to six years. The feet are made of rubber and the top portion is made of PVC pipe, which are suitable for any weather.
The limbs are manufactured by a team of engineers who specialise in making prosthetic legs, which are molded in the oven with PVC pipe and rubber mixed with Plaster of Paris (pop) powder and set to fit the requirements.
Dr Lakshmi Nair, Associate Consultant, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at KIMSHEALTH, said a housewife, who had come from a palliative care centre, testified that her life had changed completely after she received the prosthetic legs. She also noted that the majority of the needy are those who lost their legs in accidents or due to diabetes.
More information about the prosthetic limbs can be obtained by contacting phone number 7593001461.
