Biswarupa Rath
National Doctor's Day is observed every year on 21st June to honour the responsible healthcare heroes who dedicate their lives to serving people and treating them physically, emotionally, and mentally. Their unwavering support and efforts to diagnose patients deserve a great salute. The day 21st June was selected as National Doctor's Day since it marks the birth anniversary of a legendary personality, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, whose life story will continue to inspire generations. Unfortunately, he died on the same date in the year 1962. However, even on the last day of his life, he diagnosed over 20 patients, which depicts his true dedication towards humanity.
Dr. Roy was born on 1st July 1882, in Patna, Bihar, to a wonderful family, with his father working as an inspector and his mother involved in social work. However, unfortunately, his mother died at a very early age. This might have inspired him to choose a career in the medical field. Being a brilliant student, Dr. Roy struggled a lot to study in a better college. His immense interest in acquiring knowledge led him to face all consequences and pursue his respective degree. He completed his medical degree at Calcutta Medical College and later joined the same college as a teaching faculty member. Along with this, he also founded several hospitals. The renowned IMA (Indian Medical Association) was founded by Dr. Roy. For his high dedication and major contributions towards the medical sector, he was awarded the highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in the year 1961.
His work was not only limited to this; he also served as the former Chief Minister of West Bengal. During his service period, he built many cities, colleges, and steel plants.
Doctors are the leaders behind a healthy nation. They are the brightest hope during tough times. We need their helping hand from birth to death.
During any pandemic, when it is hard to step outside, they risk their own lives to diagnose us. Talking about the COVID pandemic, when it was spreading rapidly, instructions were provided to everyone to stay inside. Curfew and lockdowns were implemented. Markets, offices, schools, and all public places were closed. But doctors were the only lifesavers who served humanity. They spent hours and hours in PPE kits to cure patients suffering from COVID. About 1,000+ doctors in India sacrificed their lives to save others. Those sacrifices are irreplaceable.
Doctors, in spite of being so responsible, face numerous challenges that we barely talk about:
• Lack of proper sleep: Sometimes due to continuous working hours, they sacrifice their sleep to treat patients. They work the whole night without proper rest, which adversely affects their health too.
• Depression: Doctors can be highly depressed individuals as they face numerous issues that destabilize their mental health. A lack of proper food and rest due to work pressure, missed occasions, and being unable to spend quality time with family lead to a lack of leisure time and increased stress.
Sir William Osler once said, "The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease." This means a great physician not only cures but also shows empathy, providing proper care and support, which is the best aid along with medical treatment.
In this modern era, various machines and technological innovations have been discovered to detect and diagnose diseases; however, no mechanism or technology can replace doctors.
This day really deserves celebration for the true heroes on earth who can be considered a second form of God, as their helping hands save thousands of lives.
"In your hands lies hope, healing, and humanity."
Article by : Biswarupa Rath
(INDIAN AUTHOR AND POET)
Author's Bio : Biswarupa Rath is a Rourkela-born author, compiler, and wordsmith whose enchanting literary journey includes co-authoring more than 20 books. Dedicated to the beauty of the written word, her insightful and eloquent pieces are regularly featured in newspapers and digital platforms. Biswarupa’s impactful work has earned her several accolades, notably the Karmaveer Chakra Award (2022), the Glorious Award (2023), and the Bharat Icon Award (2024).
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