University of Moratuwa alumni donate three CPAP/BiPAP ventilator machines

Friday, 4 June 2021 02:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Initiative to provide lifesaving medical treatment to COVID-19 patients in two hospitals

In response to the appeal from hospitals, a donation campaign was started to assist in getting critical medical equipment. This is to help with the prevailing COVID situation in the country where hospitals are under pressure due to demand of reliable medical equipment.

In this regard, based on a request by State Minister Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle, the Ragama and Negombo hospitals were selected for CPAP/BiPAP Ventilators to be given. With high demand globally for these devices, ResMed officials from Australia, Sri Lanka and India assisted in securing the supply and delivery of the equipment under one week.

University of Moratuwa batch of 1982/87 was instrumental in this task, supported by those in other years as well as from Universities of Peradeniya, Ruhuna and SLIIT. The contributions came, thanks to these professionals, researchers, and family members from a variety of countries, Australia, Canada, Finland (Oulu and Helsinki), UK, New Zealand, USA, Singapore, and Sri Lanka.

The fact that this was accomplished in about a week’s time is a testimony to the dedication and the goodwill of the people associated with this multicontinental exercise.

The machines were given to the directors of Ragama and Negombo hospitals on 1 June. Speaking at the simple handover ceremony Consultant Dr. Lak Kumar Fernando, from the Negombo hospital said, “We are indeed happy with the rapid response provided to our urgent need for lifesaving ventilators. These are critical items in the fight against COVID-19 and will be mobilised with immediate effect.” Vijitha Ediriweera, Ranjith Senadheera and Chandana Ranasinghe represented the University of Moratuwa batch of 1982/87.