Christmas miracle: Health workers deliver baby in challenging Palakkad terrain, Minister applauds

Palakkad: Health workers from the Nelliyampathy Primary Health Centre in Palakkad were praised for their bravery on Christmas night by saving a mother and her newborn under challenging conditions.

Sujay Sardar, a migrant worker, and his wife Sampa (20) found themselves in a dangerous situation when Sampa went into labour while on their way to the hospital at Seetharkundu in Palakkad. Despite the difficult forest terrain and the challenges posed by wildlife, the health workers ensured the safety of both mother and child. The mother and baby are now recovering at the Women and Children’s Hospital in Palakkad.

Health Minister Veena George praised the medical team for their efforts.

The incident occurred when Sampa went into labour and her husband contacted Sudina, a junior public health nurse at Nelliyampathy Primary Health Centre. Following instructions from Medical Officer and Gynaecologist Dr Lakshmi, Sudina and Nursing Assistant Janaki immediately prepared the health centre for the delivery. Sampa and Sujay, along with pharmacist Midilaja, set out for the hospital in a jeep.

However, due to the rough terrain, Sampa gave birth before they could reach the health centre. Realising the urgency, the health workers quickly transferred the mother and newborn to the Nelliyampathy Primary Health Centre, where Sudina and Janaki provided immediate care, including the removal of the umbilical cord, inside the jeep under Dr Lakshmi’s instructions.

Meanwhile, the team arranged for their transfer to the Nemmara Community Health Centre for advanced care once the condition of both the baby and the mother had stabilised. However, the troubles did not end there. During the journey, they encountered wild elephants and a bison blocking the route. Assistance from a Forest Deputy Ranger was requested as the team was stranded in the forest for two hours. Even during the halt, Sudina continued to follow medical instructions, preventing excessive bleeding of the mother and ensuring that the baby continued breastfeeding to prevent hypoglycemia.

With help from forest officials, the mother and baby were safely transported to the Nemmara Community Health Centre. They were later moved to the Women and Children’s Hospital in Palakkad for further care.