Rising Above Adversity: A Paramedic’s Story of Health Championship

<p>Monalisa Sahoo (19) from Dhirkuti slum had to pause her studies after Matriculation owing to her father&rsquo;s untimely death. When offered a chance to join a three-month General Duty Assistance training program, part of the Urban Community Health Program facilitated by CYSD, she seized the opportunity. Despite initial struggles with English, she overcame the language barrier and learned basic computer skills. Introduced as a paramedic (health worker) in a community meeting, she began visiting homes to promote health awareness, encouraging immunization and regular check-ups in her community.</p> <p>"When I started discussing menstruation, the girls were shy and unaware of how to maintain hygiene. They gradually opened up about their issues. I helped them find solutions, and now they&rsquo;re comfortable discussing these matters with their families." Monalisa said. Due to her efforts, the girls now understand the causes of anaemia, eat affordable and nutritious food, and regularly take iron and folic acid tablets.</p> <p>Monalisa recounted a visit from an elderly woman and her pregnant daughter-in-law. Noticing the older lady looked unwell, she checked her blood pressure and found it was high, urging her to see a doctor. Days later, the woman returned healthy and grateful, realising her symptoms were due to hypertension, not a lack of food. Monalisa plans to resume her studies, embodying resilience and community service.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>