Dr. K Laxmi Bai Donates Rs 3.4 Crore for Cancer Care in Bhubaneswar
Significant Contribution Ahead of Milestone Birthday
Bhubaneswar: Dr. K Laxmi Bai, a prominent gynaecologist in India, has generously donated Rs 3.4 crore from her life savings to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar. This donation aims to enhance cancer care services for women and comes just days before her 100th birthday on December 5.
A Vision for Gynaecological Oncology
In an interview with TNIE, Dr. Laxmi expressed her desire for her contribution to aid in the establishment of a gynaecological oncology programme at the institute, which she hopes will train future healers and provide hope to numerous women facing cancer.
Support for Adolescent Vaccination Drives
In addition to her major donation, Dr. Bai has contributed Rs 3 lakh to the Berhampur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society to support vaccination initiatives aimed at preventing cancers in young women. This act of kindness has garnered significant appreciation from the medical community.
Recognition from the Medical Community
Dr. Saubhagya Kumar Jena, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, acknowledged Dr. Bai’s noble gesture in an appreciation letter upon receiving her donation. Indira Pal, secretary of the society, stated, “We will chalk out a plan in discussion with members for the proper utilisation of Rs 3 lakh, which she donated for cancer vaccination of adolescent girls,” as reported by TOI.
Upcoming Felicitation Ceremony
A team of doctors from AIIMS Bhubaneswar is expected to attend a felicitation function at Dr. Bai’s residence in Bhavnagar, organized by some of her former students. They plan to discuss how they will utilize the funds she has donated.
Dr. Laxmi Bai’s Esteemed Medical Career
A Legacy of Service and Excellence
Dr. Laxmi Bai’s medical career spans over fifty years, during which she has earned admiration not only for her clinical skills but also for her dedication to providing dignified and accessible healthcare for women.
Educational Background and Achievements
Born on December 5, 1926, Dr. Laxmi Bai’s journey in medicine began when she joined the first-ever MBBS batch at SCB Medical College, Cuttack, in 1945. She graduated in 1950 and later pursued both DGO and MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) at Madras Medical College in 1958. Her academic excellence secured her a prestigious one-year stipend to study MPH at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, USA.
Career Milestones and Awards
Dr. Bai commenced her medical service in 1950 at the Government Hospital in Sundargarh and retired in 1986 as a professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at MKCG Medical College, Berhampur. Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades, including the Lady Eminence of South Odisha, Bharat Jyoti Award, International Friendship Society recognition, and the Best Citizen of India Award.