“Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.”(Hippocrates)
In a twist of fate on August 25, 2023, Abdul Hamid Bajard, a dedicated electrician, found himself facing a life-altering challenge. While performing repair duties to ensure electricity failure in the area, near the picturesque village of Trehgam, he slipped from a staggering height of 30 feet, leaving him incapacitated from the waist down. This harrowing incident would set into motion a remarkable saga of determination, unwavering support, and resilience. Abdul was swiftly transported to the acute ward of the 168 Military Hospital, where his journey to recovery began under the capable supervision of medical authorities. The first crucial step was to stabilize Abdul's general condition, and as the medical team delved deeper, they uncovered the ominous signs of potential spinal cord damage.
The medical team, led by a senior army medical officer, left no stone unturned in their mission to ensure Abdul's well-being. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, they decided to contact SDH Kupwara for a comprehensive CT scan of Abdul's head and spine. Time was of the essence, and the patient was swiftly transported to SDH Kupwara. The results of the CT scan were chilling. It revealed a spinal fracture at LV2, a condition that could prove catastrophic when combined with the possibility of spinal cord injury. The medical team knew they had to make swift and crucial decisions to ensure Abdul's chances of recovery. In consultation with medical experts and collective effort of Neurosurgeon at Udhampur and head of surgical Division at 92 Base Hospital, Srinagar and also medical personnel at Zangali, it was decided that the best course of action was to airlift Abdul to Command Hospital in Udhampur for specialized care and treatment. However due to poor medical conditions same was not possible.
A bold and unprecedented decision was made to transport Abdul by road to 92 BH, with the Neurosurgeon being airlifted to Srinagar by helicopter for the crucial surgery. This decision was a testament to the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to the principle of "Never leave a man behind." The arduous journey commenced, with Abdul being carefully transported to 92 BH, while the Neurosurgeon embarked on a parallel journey to Srinagar. The clock was ticking, and every passing moment was critical. At 01:30 AM, with the night shrouded in darkness, the Surgical Div team at 92 BH under their division head swung into action. The intricate surgery that followed lasted close to seven hours. It was a race against time, as the team worked diligently to stabilize the spinal fracture and perform the vital decompression of the spinal canal. The surgery was a success, and Abdul's condition was finally stable.
As Abdul began his journey of recovery, the collective efforts of the medical team, the unwavering support of 168 Military Hospital and the dedication of the Neurosurgeon at Udhampur started to bear fruit. Abdul's story is not just one of survival; it is a testament to the power of resilience and the indomitable spirit of the human will. The road to recovery was not an easy one. It was marked by gruelling rehabilitation sessions, countless hours of hard work and unwavering determination. Abdul's progress was a source of inspiration not only to those involved in his care but also to everyone who heard his story. His recovery was nothing short of a miracle, a symbol of hope for those facing their own challenges in the rugged and unforgiving terrain.
Together, the healthcare setup involved in Abdul's care rewrote his fate. They proved that even in the face of life-altering circumstances, a second chance at life was not just possible but achievable. Abdul's remarkable journey serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that with determination, support and a relentless will to overcome adversity, the human spirit can triumph over the most daunting of challenges. Abdul Hamid Bajard's story is a testament to the extraordinary power of the human spirit, the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals and the commitment of the Indian Army to its core values. It is a story that will resonate far beyond the walls of the hospital, touching the hearts of all who hear it and inspiring them to face their own challenges with courage and resilience.