Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Calcutta (Fides Service) - The Daughters of Mary Auxiliatrix run three dispensaries in villages far away from the capital where they care for women and children living in poverty and hardship. In rural areas girls marry early at the age of 14 to 18 and many become pregnant immediately. During pregnancy they have to continue working in the fields, carrying heavy loads regardless of the child they are bearing. Many are anaemic and in need of blood transfusions. All are undernourished and in need of medicines. If they find a place at the dispensary they get an anti tetanus vaccine..
The Salesian Sisters try to convince these girls not to have an abortion, they give them advice on how to keep their baby and the family in good health. But more important, they try to help them realise that every new born child is a gift from God to be welcomed and cared for. The Sisters visit villages to give basic healthcare, examine the people and distribute medicines and they invite and encourage those who are ill to come to the dispensary for proper treatment. Government assistance is minimum, the people are poor and the average life expectancy is no more than 65. (AP) (13/4/2005 Agenzia Fides; Righe:23; Parole:268)
