by Diana D'Souza with Fr Barnabe D'Souza for BISMumbai

As the second wave of the pandemic was raging across India, Don Bosco Seawoods-Nerul refused to sit idle, doing nothing. Even as disturbing news from several cities poured in, Don Bosco Nerul decided to meet the need for 'oxygen' without any discrimination whatsoever, with the sole intent of saving lives. Procurement of the 'oxygen concentrators' or 'cylinders' posed a hurdle, since vendors quoted astronomical sums, aware of the scarcity and non-availability.

The Indian Catholic Association of Central Texas [ICA]-USA, stepped in to deliver 15 Oxygen concentrator machines. With the local support and sponsorship from well-wishers, additional machines were procured. These 40 machines through our partner organizations have helped in various ways to sustain or save lives. Along with the 'oxygen concentrators', oximeters, Covid-19 medicines and protective gear have also been despatched to enable frontline local health [Asha] workers in rural hinterlands, assist the most vulnerable needy.

One of the relatives says, “Thanks to you’ll my desperate search has ended.” Several shattering reports of 'oxygen' non-availability continues to stream in from all over the country, as also in the local context of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. The dire need for this life-saving equipment is now being felt in many villages.