the goan I network
VASCO
It’s not often that a person who is not a politician, film star or sports icon gets a hero’s welcome at Dabolim airport, but Dr Rajesh Patil, associate professor of surgery at Goa Medical College in Bambolim, was welcomed by a large crowd of residents from Cortalim constituency on Friday.
They came to show their appreciation to Dr Patil, who was recently presented with a national award by President Ram Nath Kovind for outstanding contribution in the field of prevention of Alcoholism and Substance abuse 2018, to mark International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Amid a display of placards and chanting of slogans, Dr Patil was garlanded by the group of residents on his arrival at Dabolim Airport.
Speaking to reporters, Dr Patil said the president’s words of encouragement still rang in his ears.
“He sought to know how I got into this field of prevention of alcoholism despite being a surgeon. I replied to him that as a doctor, it is our duty to look after patients with alcoholism, as it gives rise to several other diseases,” said Dr Patil.
“I also told him that we are going to continue with this effort with all members of alcoholic anonymous and other social groups to fight towards prevention or early treatment of alcoholism,” said Dr Patil.
Dr Patil said the award had given him renewed vigour and motivation to spread the message on prevention of alcoholism at the panchayat level.
“I would like to get involved in panchayat meetings and put forth a proposal, wherein they can start spreading a message on preventing alcoholism at the panchayat levels, as this is the best network we have in Goa today,” said Dr Patil.
Dr Patil informed that a counselling group of alcoholic anonymous was started in Goa Medical College to counsel every patient admitted for alcoholism.
“I request all doctors from GMC and elsewhere to send their patients to our counselling group in GMC on Wednesday evening, to enable us give them a ray of hope.”
“I also request people to come out and be a part of various groups like alcoholic anonymous and stay away from alcohol intake, as this will help decrease incidents of alcoholism in Goa,” Dr Patil added.
