~ Uppali Mohanty

In Dhirkuti slum of Bhubaneswar, Sumati Das, a 24-year-old woman, embodies the spirit of change as a Community Health Worker (Paramedic). Her journey from managing a household to a community health champion is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives and personal determination.

Sumati’s life was marked by hardship early on. In 2009, she lost her father, a tragedy that thrust her family into financial instability. Her mother, forced to become a daily wage labourer, struggled to make ends meet. Sumati, bearing the weight of household responsibilities, managed to complete her higher secondary education in 2014. However, financial constraints and time limitations made further studies an unattainable dream.

In the midst of these challenges, she was offered an opportunity to become a community volunteer. The project introduced a Community-Led Participatory Learning Approach (CLPLA), focusing on local health empowerment through the training of community women as Health Paramedics. Recognising her potential, the project offered to train her as a General Duty Assistant (GDA). Over three rigorous months, Sumati acquired essential healthcare skills, from understanding human anatomy to providing emergency first aid. This training, in collaboration with institutions like Upasana Trust and St. Joseph’s Seva Sadan Community College, equipped her to serve her community effectively.

 

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Sumati’s responsibilities as a paramedic are diverse. She creates awareness about dietary practices and hygiene, conducts hygiene campaigns, provides emergency first aid, and encourages community members to avail of government schemes like the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana. She faciliates Urban Health and Nutrition Day (UHND) activities, ensuring active community participation. Sumati’s engagement extends to counselling adolescents, guiding them on managing menstruation, proper nutrition, and the importance of immunisation.

One of Sumati’s notable contributions is her focus on the elderly. Observing that many elderly individuals were deprived of proper care, she made it her mission to visit households, check their vitals, and ensure they received necessary medical attention. Her counselling sessions with family members emphasised the importance of prioritising elderly health and recognising warning signs that required immediate medical intervention.

Sumati’s efforts have led to a significant shift in the community’s mindset. Initially, she had to persistently approach families to encourage vaccination and regular check-ups. Today, community members actively seek her out for health advice and assistance. Sumati is now respected in her neighbourhood and plays a crucial role in monitoring vitals and recommending appropriate medical services.

Sumati’s journey as a paramedic has not only empowered her community but also brought about personal growth. She takes immense satisfaction in seeing pregnant women and mothers taking proactive steps for their health and the well-being of their children. The community’s improved awareness and utilisation of government schemes fill her with pride. Looking ahead, Sumati aspires to work in a hospital, further enhancing her skills to better serve her community. Her journey exemplifies resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to fostering well-being in the face of adversity.

The project “Promoting Health Seeking Behaviour among High-Risk Groups” in Dhirkuti has not only brightened Sumati’s life but also brought positive changes to the community. Together, they have created a supportive environment where everyone helps each other. Sumati Das stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to the transformative power of community-led initiatives and the indomitable spirit of individuals dedicated to making a difference.