This is probably the best example of a life well lived with all selfless service, infinite compassion, and a sound sense of purpose behind it self. From the little beginnings of a primary school teacher, she has moved on to become a volunteer at the national level in the field of palliative care. Such is her life journey for posterity.
Yesoda was born with intrinsic empathy for others within. Accordingly, she began serving the society as an active Primary School Teacher in 1972, shaping young minds with knowledge and values. For more than thirty years (1972-2007), she did a lot in the field of education with an emphasis on the elimination of illiteracy and empowerment of women, much before this had acquired a popular social cause status. For most of the young women and marginalized students in villages, her classrooms were not just sites of academic learning; they were also gardens where they would bloom into colorful flowers of encouragement, consolation, and opportunity.
When she retired in 2007, most people would have occupied themselves in restful activities, but Yesoda took the path of further purposefulness. It was then that she threw herself into the world of full-time social service, with her whole heart committing herself to palliative care-these two words resonated so strongly with her kind-hearted soul. Knowing fully well about the kind of mental and physical agony terminally ill patients undergo, Yesoda chose to dedicate her entire life towards making sure that these patients receive the care they deserve- dignified, holistic, and compassionate.
Together with her husband Mr. MV Govindan and other inspire-like educators and social workers, she co-founded the Karunya Palliative Rehabilitation Centre in 2008. Located in rural Kerala, the centre became a sanctuary for terminally ill people and their families-not just a place for medical assistance but also holistic emotional and spiritual potencies that restore dignity during the most fragile moments of life.
Yesoda's Malayalam book on her life and work in palliative care splendidly encapsulates her thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences. It stands as a heartfelt guide to caregivers, professionals, and the general public stressing the need for empathy and emotional healing along with medical treatment. Her work emphasizes the humanity in health care: a message so often lost in the rush of clinical protocols.
A tireless volunteer, she has organized and conducted many community outreach programs, workshops, and interactions amongst health professionals regarding the importance of comprehensive palliative care services. This effort has made benefits to both reduce the suffering of innumerable patients and educate society to keep in view respect, dignity, and compassion for the terminally ill.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, she was honored with the best "Palliative Volunteer" Award for Social Service, and the prestigious "Vanitha Ratnam" Award by Kannur District in 2021-a testimony to her continuous commitment and impact.
