MYSORE: In today's fast-paced environment, people are left thinking about making a choice between health and wealth. Often, many are left suffering due to the lack of another. But, this doctor from Mysore ensures that shortage of wealth or deficiency in health does not come in the way while treating his patients.
As an ayurvedic doctor, Nagesh N has been following the principle of health maintenance, prevention of diseases and finding a cure for sickness. Involved in treating the poor, Nagesh takes care of his patients suffering from chronic illness and mental disorders for free since they can't afford expensive treatments which runs for couple of years or even more.
He says: "Poor people cannot afford quality treatment. But, everyone must lead a life with good health. I am here to serve the needy from which I get immense satisfaction and happiness. For instance, a treatment for cerebral palsy can continue for several years or even more. I give my best to make impossible possible."
The 56-year-old doctor has been serving the needy for the last 17 years. At his home in JP Nagar in the city, Nagesh has converted his garage into a clinic for patients.
Nagesh, a district AYUSH officer, treats patients as early at 5 am till 9.30 am. The clinic, which is later run by medical students, remains open till 12 pm and resumes back from 7 pm till late night. In the evening, Nagesh spends time and treats patients at a charitable hospital completing his official work. Apart from treatment, this ayurvedic doctor also educates patients on their problem areas and safety measures to be adopted to control it.
"Depending upon the opportunity, I utilize my strength and application of mind to serve the poor. When I treat a patient, I develop a rapport with them," expressed Nagesh. The consultation fee for patients, rich or poor, is free of cost at the clinic. Meanwhile, the treatment and medicines are also available at lesser rates.
A native of Ranebennur in Haveri district, Nagesh completed his schooling in Bangalore and Pre-University from Karnataka Science College in Dharwad. He added: "I always wanted to be a doctor, so I joined the government Ayurvedic College in Mysore." After finishing his graduation in 1979, Nagesh worked at Sakleshpura, Arsikere, Nanjangud, Uttanahalli and Devalapura before coming to Mysore.
With his family as the backbone, Nagesh finds support and strength in his wife Dr Madhumati, son Dr Tejas N Patil and daughter-in-law Dr Lavanya. The doctor has been honoured with the D Devaraj Urs National Mahan Sreerathna Award in 2005 and Kannada Rajyotsava Award (Civic) in the year 2008.