As a part of IAU’s sustained efforts to support the environment in which it functions, the Christian Fellowship of the International American University college of Medicine visited St. Jude’s Hospital together with a few of the student body and Dr. James Villanueva, the Interim Dean of IAU. Starting the visit by invoking the blessings and committing the visit to God’s hands, the students visited the pediatrics’, surgery, male, female, and maternal wards.
The visit was happy occasion for the many patients there, who were pleased and willing to talk to the students who spoke to them about their general health. The students had carried with them gift bags and toy packs which they distributed during their ward visits. “It is really nice what you are doing”, said a patient who has had no visitors recently. The students’ visit helped light up the day for many patients, most of whom were bed ridden and was glad to have chance to interact with the students. A huge ‘Get Well Soon’ poster signed by the students and staff of IAU was hung at the hospital to brighten up the day of the patients.
“The hospital staff was very sweet and very helpful. They were happy to have us and helped us to make this visit a memorable one for the patients”, said one of the students who visited the hospital. A common sentiment echoed amongst the visiting students was that such trips were to be encouraged for they are crucial for boosting the patient moral and aiding in their recuperation.
Mr. Nair, the president of IAU applauded the efforts of the student and remarked that such activities were important for it would help mould the students in to well-rounded human being. The students hope to repeat the visit soon and make such visits a regular affair.