Bethany Hospital Nongpoh wraps up 10th Anniversary, inaugurates dialysis unit

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 10, 2024

Bethany Hospital Outreach, Nongpoh, concluded its 10th Anniversary celebrations on 9th August 2024 with a grand event that marked the inauguration of Ri Bhoi district’s first dialysis unit. This important milestone reflects the hospital’s decade-long commitment to improving healthcare in the region. The event also included the release of a commemorative souvenir and the unveiling of a bust of the late Dr. John L. Sailo Ryntathiang, the hospital’s founder.

The celebration was attended by the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, as the Chief Guest, and the MLA of Nongpoh, Mayralborn Syiem, as the Guest of Honour.

In her speech, Dr. Lyngdoh praised the hospital for its dedication to providing quality healthcare to the people of Nongpoh and surrounding areas. She highlighted the significance of the new dialysis unit, which will make essential medical services more accessible in the district.

Mayralborn Syiem, the Guest of Honour, recalled Dr. Sailo’s inspirational words, “I dare to dream,” and compared them to Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous dream. He commended the hospital for its contributions to the community, including the quality healthcare it provides, the employment opportunities it creates, and the welcoming environment it fosters.

Hospital Director Mrs. Achula D. Sailo shared the moving story behind the establishment of Bethany Hospital Outreach in Nongpoh. She recounted how the land where the hospital now stands was once a paddy field. The tragic death of a chowkidar’s wife, who passed away on her way to Shillong for treatment, deeply affected her late husband, Dr. John L. Sailo Ryntathiang. This event, along with the challenges patients faced in traveling long distances for healthcare, inspired Dr. Sailo to build a hospital that could provide quality medical care locally.

Mrs. Sailo also spoke about the hospital’s progress over the past decade, including expanding services in Byrnihat and Umsning, demonstrating the hospital’s ongoing commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of rural communities.

The ceremony ended with a Thanksgiving session led by Rev. Lyndan Syiem, Pastor-in-Charge of Mawroh Presbyterian Church, Shillong, who offered prayers of thanks for the hospital’s achievements and blessings for its future endeavors. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by David V. L. Sailo Kharsatiang, Chief Financial Officer of Bethany Hospitals, who expressed his gratitude to all the dignitaries, staff, and community members for their continued support.