Category health

Hyderabad, Dec 15: In a significant step towards strengthening India’s healthcare workforce, Ebekmed, in collaboration with the Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) launched AHPI SHiNE Labs in Hyderabad — the country’s first stand-alone Co-Skills Hub dedicated exclusively to hospital workforce training.

The Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) is India’s largest and most representative body of private healthcare providers. It is a national, not-for-profit apex association that represents hospitals, nursing homes, diagnostic centres, and healthcare institutions across India, ranging from small clinics to large multi-speciality hospital chains.

It was launched formally by Dr. Girdhar Gyani, Director General, Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) virtually on Monday morning at Punjagutta.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Girdhar Gyani said, “Hyderabad city has about 126 private hospitals with over 100 beds, and total hospital bed spaces (all sizes combined) of around 12,000, including smaller facilities. Nursing is the backbone of healthcare, and nursing care contributes significantly to patient safety.”

Mr. G. Sreekanthan, Managing Director, Ebekmed, said, “We are skill partners for hospitals. Our research, including a skill hackathon involving 2,400 students, revealed a significant gap in the knowledge levels of graduating students, highlighting the need for a specialised training partner. Confidence and competence are critical. India has nearly 3,000 nursing colleges, with about 2 lakh nursing students graduating each year. Upskilling is the need of the hour to create a job-ready nursing workforce.”

He added, “Hyderabad has 297 NABH-accredited hospitals, indicating strong demand for the services we offer. If required, we may expand further within the city. We are also keen on expanding to Tier-II and Tier-III cities.”

Through Certified Clinical Competency Courses, online programs, and structured learning bundles aligned with NABH essential procedures, AHPI SHiNE Labs will enable nurses and allied health professionals to develop competencies required in modern hospitals. The offering includes essential certification courses and advanced procedures across multiple specialties, ensuring hospitals have access to a pipeline of skilled, assessment-ready professionals said R Govind Hari.

Equally significant are the hands-on workshops and the establishment of Co-Skills Hubs—state-of-the-art simulation facilities equipped with modern resources. This ensures learning goes beyond theory and is rooted in real-world clinical practice under qualified clinical educators, shared Mr. Govind Hari.

Conceptualised as a shared, professional training ecosystem, AHPI SHiNE Labs aims to support hospitals with structured hands-on practice, standardised learning frameworks, and adoption of best clinical practices, without disrupting hospital operations. The initiative is designed to equip, upskill, and empower healthcare professionals across a wide spectrum of hospitals.

The Hyderabad AHPI SHiNE Lab features state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced simulation and skills-training facilities, essential manikins, consumables, and clinical equipment. Hospitals will be supported through qualified clinical educators, digital pre-learning modules, certification pathways, and outcome-based assessments — ensuring measurable learning outcomes and improved workforce readiness.

Ebekmed plans to replicate the AHPI SHiNE Labs model across major cities in India, creating a national network of co-skills hubs for healthcare training.

The launch was held in the presence of eminent healthcare leaders: Chief Guest, Dr Girdhar Gyani, Director General, AHPI and the launch of Simulation Rooms by Shri R. Govind Hari, Chairman, PVRI Group of Eye Hospitals, Shri Raghunath Reddy, Managing Director, Continental Hospitals

It was launched in the Presence of Dr Sunil K. Khetarpal, Deputy Director General, AHPI; Dr Annie Thakore, Group CEO, Pranaam Hospitals, Hyderabad; Dr Prashanth, Group Medical Director, Rainbow Children’s Hospital; Shri Biju Nair, Zonal COO, CARE Hospitals

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 15: A 73-year-old patient from Andhra Pradesh who had multiple rare brain conditions, was successfully treated at KIMSHEALTH. The patient who sought treatment at various other hospitals but with no respite, reported at the OP with severe headache and dizziness. A Digital Subtraction Angiogram (DSA) revealed Left Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) aneurysm, a condition where a bulge forms in the major blood vessel of the left side of the brain,  as well severe narrowing of the left carotid artery- the main vessel supplying blood to the brain. This dual condition  is rare and puts the patient at a much higher risk of stroke.

To save the patient, the medical team led by Dr. Santhosh Joseph, Senior Consultant and Clinical Lead, Department of Neuro Interventional Radiology, KIMSHEALTH,  first treated the narrowing of the left carotid artery,by placing a stent. A catheter was guided to the narrowed artery through a small puncture in the groin, and a stent was placed to improve blood flow to the brain.

The aneurysm was then treated using an intra-saccular flow diverter (WEB). The WEB device consists of a self expanding titanium mesh that is placed directly inside the aneurysm to  disrupt the flow of blood to the aneurysm, while preserving normal blood flow in the parent vessel.

The presence of  both  aneurysm and carotid stenosis puts the patient at very high risk. Treating the blockage and preventing rupture were essential, said Dr. Joseph.

Dr. Manish Kumar Yadav, Senior Consultant, Department of Neuro Interventional Radiology, Imaging & Interventional Radiology, Dr. Madhavan Unni, Senior Consultant and Chief Coordinator, Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Dr. Sarath Surendran, Department of Neuro Anesthesia, Dr.Mohammed Ajmal and Dr.Diwakar N, Department NeuroInterventional Radiology were also part of the five hour long procedure.

Mumbai, Dec 15:-  ALIV, a pioneer in clinically-supervised preventive and regenerative wellness, announces its launch in Mumbai. Established in Pune in December 2016, ALIV has spent nearly a decade advancing the science of regenerative medicine through its dedicated research and clinical centre. This strong foundation not only lends ALIV unmatched credibility in the field but also distinguishes it from newer IV therapy-only providers.

Moving beyond conventional wellness models, ALIV brings to Mumbai a scientifically rigorous, doctor-led approach, positioning personalized IV therapy not as a luxury indulgence but as an essential component of modern preventive care.

Founded by Rishi Tandulwadkar, a medical researcher and visionary behind ALIV, the centre reflects his mission to bring advanced, evidence-based wellness to the forefront of modern living. Conceived as a one-of-a-kind facility, ALIV redefines the wellness journey guiding individuals from reactive health fixes to proactive, integrative care that enhances vitality and resilience.

Supporting him are Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, renowned IVF consultant, endoscopic surgeon, and President of The Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI), and Dr. Rajesh Tandulwadkar, leading surgical gastroenterologist and liver transplant surgeon. Together, they drive the movement to make regenerative wellness an essential part of modern lifestyles.

“In today’s high-stress, fast-paced world, we are facing a generational health crisis masked as burnout,” states Rishi Tandulwadkar. “Epigenetic dysfunction, nutritional depletion, and metabolic strain have become the new normal. Conventional healthcare often waits for disease to appear. ALIV provides a clinically supervised environment where preventive care is as personalized as treatment helping the body thrive, not merely survive.”

ALIV’s Offerings for Modern Mumbai
Designed for busy professionals, frequent travelers, and wellness optimizers, ALIV combines efficiency, science, and personalization in its approach. Core services include:

• Personalized IV Drip Therapy: Targeted treatments for fatigue, fat loss, liver health, and more planned via intake and lab assessments, monitored by clinicians.

• Regenerative Cell Therapy (ACT): Advanced interventions for intelligent aging and chronic disease management.

ALIV champions a new wellness paradigm;

proactive, preventive, and regenerative living as a non-negotiable part of a high performing life. By integrating evidence-based therapies into daily routines, ALIV aims to help individuals unlock their body’s fullest potential, sustain vitality, and mitigate the gradual drift toward chronic disease.

Siliguri, Dec 15: FUJIFILM India, a leader in advanced diagnostic imaging solutions, has announced the installation of its state-of-the-art APERTO Lucent Open MRI system at Mothercare Centre Airport Plaza Building Bagdogra Naxalbari Block Close to Siliguri District, Darjeeling, strengthening a partnership that spans more than a decade. The centre, led by Director, Dr. Ranjit Bhagat, has long relied on FUJIFILM India’s CR, DR and ultrasound technologies, and this latest installation marks a transformative step forward in expanding high-quality MRI access for communities across North Bengal.

The APERTO Lucent brings together precision imaging and patient-centric design, offering a uniquely open, comfortable scanning experience through its single-pillar structure and True OPEN Bore architecture. Equipped with a 0.4T permanent magnet, the system delivers stable, high-clarity imaging at low running costs, while its IP-RAPID technology significantly reduces scan times without compromising detail, helping clinicians diagnose complex neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiac, and oncological conditions with greater accuracy and efficiency.

The city, Siliguri, functions as a critical healthcare hub for a vast regional population spanning North Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar and the North-East, where access to advanced imaging has historically been uneven and sometimes delayed. With India steadily expanding MRI availability beyond large cities, the installation of this machine in Siliguri aims to bridge these gaps by offering faster, more accurate diagnosis within the region and ensuring that high-quality care is accessible to every family without the burden of long-distance travel.

Dr. Ranjit Bhagat, Director, Mother Care Center, added, “At Mother Care Center, our priority has always been to give patients access to the best possible care, supported by reliable and advanced technology. The APERTO Lucent Open MRI is a significant step forward for us, it delivers superior image quality while offering a more comfortable experience, especially for patients who feel anxious in closed scanners. This upgrade strengthens our ability to diagnose with confidence and ensures that our community benefits from modern, high-precision imaging right here in Siliguri.”

Speaking on the milestone, Mr. Shunsuke Honda, Business Advisor, Medical Systems Division, FUJIFILM India, said, “At FUJIFILM India, improving access to advanced imaging is central to our mission. Many communities in North Bengal and neighbouring regions have long faced delays in reaching specialised diagnostic services, and installations like this help bring high-quality MRI closer to the people who need it most. Our partnership with Mother Care Center reflects our commitment to strengthening regional healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that world-class imaging is not limited to metro cities. With the APERTO Lucent Open MRI, we aim to support more equitable, timely and patient-friendly diagnostics across Siliguri and nearby cities.”

This installation reinforces FUJIFILM India’s commitment to strengthening diagnostic ecosystems in emerging healthcare hubs, ensuring that access to advanced, equitable, and patient-friendly imaging continues to expand across the country.

Hyderabad, Dec 13: DEEP Trust, a non-profit organisation working to uplift vulnerable children and communities, will celebrate its 11th anniversary tomorrow with DEEP Annual Day – DEEP Elevate 2025 at Hotel Daspalla, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.

The milestone event will bring together children, youth, educators, volunteers, partners, and supporters to reflect on DEEP’s journey over the past decade and to unveil its roadmap for the future.

A major highlight of DEEP Elevate 2025 will be the launch of the DEEP Mobile Health & Screening Bus, a fully equipped mobile facility designed to deliver preventive healthcare directly to underserved communities. The mobile unit will provide breast cancer screening, cervical cancer screening, basic diagnostics, and essential health education, enabling early detection of diseases and reducing the financial burden associated with late-stage treatment. By reaching remote and low-resource areas, the initiative is expected to benefit thousands of women and families, significantly strengthening community health outcomes.

On this occasion, DEEP Trust will also launch the DEEP Mobile App, a user-friendly digital platform that enables beneficiaries to access information and services seamlessly.

Founder Trustees Dr Rakesh Kalapala and Dr Madhu Vasepalli will unveil DEEP Vision 2030, an ambitious roadmap aimed at transforming 5 million lives through equitable healthcare, quality education, and innovative skill development initiatives.

The event will showcase DEEP’s flagship programmes, including DEEP on Wheels (Mobile Health), the Physiotherapy Centre (KGNMT), education support programmes across schools and Child Care Institutions (CCIs) such as Asritha, Srividhya, VSS, THARA Home, Balyam Home, Government Special Homes, among others.

It will also highlight skill-building centres for youth and women, scholarships for economically weaker students, and environmental awareness drives. Volunteers and partners will be honoured for their invaluable contributions to grassroots development.

Life-Changing Surgery at Jaslok Hospital Helps Woman Overcome Hyperhidrosis Affecting 2-5% of Indians, Restores Confidence and Dignity

Mumbai, Dec 12: Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre has successfully treated a young ex-airhostess suffering from palmar hyperhidrosis, a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating of the hands, through Bilateral Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy (VATS)—a safe, minimally invasive, day-care surgical procedure with immediate results.

Hyperhidrosis is estimated to affect 2–5% of the population in India, yet remains significantly underreported, as many individuals do not recognize it as a medical condition and continue to suffer silently. The disorder can severely impact daily functioning, emotional well-being, and professional life if left untreated.

The patient had been experiencing symptoms since adolescence and had sought multiple medical opinions over the years with no lasting relief. The condition eventually forced her to step away from her profession and affected her mental health and self-confidence.

The patient underwent Bilateral Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy (VATS), performed by Dr. Vimesh Rajput, Consultant – Thoracic Surgery. Anaesthesia was expertly managed by Dr. Savi Kapila, Consultant – Anaesthesiology, a one-hour surgical procedure that interrupts the sympathetic nerves responsible for excessive sweating of the hands.

“Hyperhidrosis is not a minor inconvenience—it is a disabling medical condition that can push patients into social isolation, anxiety, and even depression,” said Dr. Vimesh Rajput, Thoracic Surgeon at Jaslok Hospital. “What makes the situation unfortunate is that a definitive, safe solution exists, yet awareness remains extremely low.”

Emphasising the effectiveness of the procedure, he added:

“This is a minimally invasive, day-care surgery. Patients walk in with a problem that has affected them for years and walk out the same day with immediate relief. The results are predictable, lasting, and often life-changing.”

Dr. Rajput also highlighted the importance of early consultation and intervention:

“Many patients dismiss excessive sweating as something they must live with. Over time, it impacts confidence, social interactions, and mental health. Early diagnosis and timely surgical treatment can completely restore dignity and quality of life.”

Post-procedure, the patient experienced instant and complete resolution of symptoms, allowing her to resume normal daily activities without fear, embarrassment, or discomfort.

Speaking about the case Dr Milind Khadke, Chief Medical Officer at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre said

“Correct diagnosis of hyperhidrosis is vital. With minimally invasive, short-stay procedures like VATS sympathectomy, patients can achieve immediate relief and restored confidence. Greater awareness is needed so individuals recognise this condition as treatable and seek timely medical intervention. Jaslok Hospital’s clinical excellence ensures comprehensive management of all kinds of diseases with world-class care.”

Dec 11: About 400 Children with visual impairment, their siblings and parents from the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation  of the L V Prasad Eye Institute indulged in a day of shared laughter and joy at Wild Waters, a 30-acre amusement theme park in Shankarpally. The special day of fun celebrated inclusion, confidence, and togetherness, the values that deeply resonate with IVR’s mission to empower those for whom medical science has no definitive cure.

The day began at the LVPEI campus with a scrumptious breakfast, followed by a vibrant cultural program presented by the children. Their performances filled the campus with high spirits, setting the perfect tone for the day. Dr Tarjani Dave, Head of the Ocularistry Laboratory at LVPEI, graced the event as the special guest. She inspired and encouraged the children with her heartfelt words, asking them to repeat in unison, “I’m strong, I’m capable, I’m beautiful, I’m unlimited.” The affirmation echoed through the campus, symbolizing empowerment, confidence, and the limitless potential that the IVR strives to nurture in every child.

Accompanied by their siblings, parents, and support staff, the children enjoyed games and rides designed to engage their senses and comfort levels. Separate lawns were dedicated for these activities, where IVR’s rehabilitation professionals thoughtfully curated games that encouraged participation, teamwork, and fun. The setup ensured that every child could confidently compete while parents and siblings stood close by, offering both reassurance and encouragement.

For the parents, particularly the mothers, the day was much more than recreation. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect. As they shared stories, laughter, and experiences, bonds were formed that would go beyond the event. “It was heartening to see the parents, especially mothers open up, share hope, and celebrate their children’s strengths,” said Dr Beula Christy, Head of the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation at LVPEI. “Such moments remind us that rehabilitation is as much about emotional support and community as it is about learning and independence.”

The Institute for Vision Rehabilitation at LVPEI is one of the very few globally integrated facilities within an eye institute, created to serve individuals for whom medical or surgical options offer limited solutions. Its holistic model focuses on maximizing functional vision, promoting lifelong independence, and restoring dignity through education, training, and psychological support.

Throughout the day, the families explored a variety of rides and water activities, enjoyed freshly prepared meals at the park’s food courts, and soaked in an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance. As the sun set, the air resonated with laughter, renewed confidence, and heartwarming memories. The event was made possible through the generous donations of a number of individual donors.

LVPEI’s Institute for Vision Rehabilitation continues to stand as a beacon of inclusion and possibility, proving that while vision may be impaired, the human spirit and capacity for joy remain boundless.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Dec 11: In the recent Hurun Stars of Gujarat 2025 event, Senores Pharmaceuticals Limited emerged in the spotlight as its Managing Director, Mr. Swapnil Shah, and Chief Heart Officer, Ms. Anar Modi, were honoured with the Pharmaceutical Excellence Award. The recognition underscores Senores’ continued commitment to advancing Gujarat’s healthcare and pharmaceutical landscape through innovation, responsible leadership, and global ambition.

At the event, Mr. Shah joined a dynamic panel on “Think Global, Act Gujarati: Building Global Brands from Gujarat,” while Ms. Modi participated in a fireside chat on “Raising from Gujarat: Building Ambition, Impact & Leadership.” Both discussions, moderated by industry leaders, highlighted Gujarat’s entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and growing global influence.

“This honour is a reflection of the hard work and passion of our entire team,” said Mr. Swapnil Shah, “Gujarat has always been a land of opportunity and innovation, and we are committed to contributing meaningfully to its economic and healthcare advancements.”

Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Anar Modi, shared, “This recognition strengthens our resolve to lead with purpose, nurture talent, and build an organisation that creates lasting impact—both within India and globally.”

With this recognition, HURUN INDIA acknowledges Senores Pharmaceuticals as a key contributor to Gujarat’s progress, underscoring the company’s ongoing efforts to innovate, lead with responsibility, and play a meaningful role in the state’s growth story.

“Most people understand constipation as a condition when one isn’t passing stools as often as usual. However, parents must remember that constipation isn’t just about the frequency of stools, but also how easy or difficult it is for your child to pass them,”

explains Dr Parijat Ram Tripathi, Consultant Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children. He further says that in the present day, with a changing diet and lifestyle, roughly 30% Indian kids suffer from constipation. 

Bowel habits vary widely between children; thus, parents may sometimes not realize when their child’s constipation is worsening and when they need a specialist. Dr. Parijat discusses with us five red flags of constipation that should alert any parent. Identifying early signs can help a parent take timely steps for constipation in their child, saving them from discomfort, complications, and prolonged suffering.

• Standing and passing stools: “Many younger children, especially those who aren’t fully toilet trained, may pass stools in a standing position. In most cases, parents assume this is just another habit,” Dr. Parijat explains. He reinforces that if a child repeatedly passes stool in a standing position, it should alert parents to possible underlying constipation, and they must consult an expert.

• Child avoids stools altogether: In some cases, a child may avoid passing stools altogether because of painful motions. Subtle signs can include an older child running away when taken to the potty, or a visible display of discomfort when trying to pass stools.

• Leakage of stools: Dr. Parijat urges parents to carefully check their child’s diaper or underpants for leakage of stools. Small amounts of stool leaked in the diaper or underpants are indicative of accumulated stool that the child isn’t able to pass.

• Hard stools: The child passing stool doesn’t rule out constipation completely. If the stools are hard or passed in small quantities multiple times, the child may still be constipated. Parents often mistake the passage of any stool as a sign that there is no constipation, which shouldn’t be the case.

• Blood in stools: “Prolonged hard stools may result in anal fissures which may cause blood in the stools, a red flag that parents should never ignore,” Dr Parijat warns. 

Apart from the above signs, a bloated or firm tummy in smaller babies, loss of appetite, pellet-like stools, or the baby crying while passing stools are some other signs that are suggestive of constipation.

Diet and Constipation

Diet plays a crucial role in causing constipation. After six months of age, complementary feeding starts for babies. However, if the baby continues to be more dependent on milk and less on solids, then constipation can result. 

“Higher intake of carbohydrates and fats in the form of junk food, combined with low fibre in the diet, is a major reason why constipation has increased in the past few years,” Dr. Parijat says. He advises that fruits, vegetables, millets, and other fibre-rich foods should be a regular part of a child’s diet for a healthy gut, and parents should introduce them in an age-appropriate manner from the start. Hydration, he says, is equally important and children should be encouraged to drink plenty of water. Apart from diet, he encourages parents to start toilet training on time for developing regular bowel habits. 

He further adds that in some cases, the cause for constipation may be an underlying medical issue, which is why a thorough and timely checkup by a pediatric gastroenterologist is advised. 

“Constipation is common, yet challenging for the child. If left unaddressed, it can linger for months or years and cause significant discomfort. With early attention, simple dietary changes, and timely expert care, parents can help their child overcome it with ease,” Dr Parijat concludes.

New Delhi, Dec 09: Doctors at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh pulled off a medical miracle when they revived a 55-year-old man who had suffered multiple cardiac arrests following a minor procedure at another city-based hospital in Delhi. Despite being given less than 5% chances of survival, the patient made a complete recovery, owing to the swift action, coordinated teamwork, and advanced cardiac support provided by the Fortis cardiology and critical-care teams.

The patient, a known diabetic, had undergone a routine procedure to remove a sebaceous cyst, a small benign lump on his back. Six hours after the surgery, he suddenly collapsed in his hospital room. His heart stopped, prompting the medical team to initiate immediate CPR and deliver multiple electric shocks to revive him.

Recognising the severity of the situation, the treating doctors reached out to Dr. Rashi Khare, Additional Director- Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. Dr. Khare rushed to the hospital, assessed the patient’s critical condition, and advised shifting the patient to Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh for advanced cardiac care.

When the patient arrived at Fortis Shalimar Bagh, he was critically ill, on ventilator and battling severe complications. Imaging revealed that his lung had collapsed, a consequence of the intense CPR he had endured. Without wasting a moment, the medical team moved him to the Cath lab for emergency angiography, which showed restored blood flow in his coronary vessels. But despite those efforts, he suffered yet another cardiac arrest.

Facing a life-or-death moment, with mortality risk soaring extremely high -the team made a bold decision: they placed him on ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation). This advanced life-support system temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs. The ECMO therapy was initiated within an hour, and continued uninterrupted for five days, until his heart and lungs regained strength and began to function on their own.

Under the leadership of Dr. N. N. Tripathi, Head of Cardiology, Fortis Shalimar Bagh and with the seamless collaboration of Dr. Rashi Khare, Dr. Sandeep Garg (Principal Consultant & Unit Head, Pulmonology, Fortis Shalimar Bagh, alongwith the cardiac anesthesia team led by Dr. Amit Prakash and Dr. Vishal Garg, the patient began a steady recovery. His heart gradually regained strength, infections were brought under control and over time, he was successfully weaned off ECMO and ventilatorsupport. After several weeks of intensive monitoring, he was discharged in a stable condition and is now recuperating well at home.

“After 45 minutes of CPR and multiple cardiac arrests, his chances of survival were extremely slim. When he arrived at Fortis on life support, scans showed a collapsed lung from the resuscitation, and his heart was barely functioning,” said Dr. Rashi Khare, Additional Director of Cardiology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. “Putting him on ECMO was a decisive move — it gave his heart and lungs exactly the rest they needed. This case truly exemplifies how the right mix of timely intervention, teamwork, and advanced technology can save a life.”

Naveen Sharma, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh said, 

“This case underscores Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh’s advanced cardiac care and the team’s ability to act decisively in critical, time-sensitive situations. Surviving multiple cardiac arrests with complete heart and brain recovery is extremely rare, and this outcome reflects the expertise, coordination, and commitment of our medical teams. It truly demonstrates that with the right skill, speed, and collaboration, every second can make the difference between life and loss.”