Dr. Kelly Whaley, a 1997 graduate of 蹤獲扦 College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM), recently returned from what she recalls as one of the most moving experiences of her career: a Medical Yatra in Indore, India.
Yatra, a Hindi word meaning pilgrimage, represents a long-standing humanitarian initiative led by the Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO). This year marked the programs 25th mission, with a strong emphasis on womens healthparticularly the prevention and treatment of HPV, cervical cancer, and breast cancer. The multidisciplinary team also included specialists in internal medicine, family practice, gastroenterology, pulmonology, cardiology, and CPR training.
This marking the first year with podiatric medicine incorporated into the mission of the journey, Dr. Whaley played a vital role. In her time there, she treated a wide range of conditions such as wounds, venous ulcers, paronychia, pes planus, arthritis, and provided palliative foot care.
The team of volunteers traveled to three villages, where their arrival was anticipated through local billboards announcing the Medical Yatra. At each stop, they were warmly received with ceremonies, prayers, and gifts. Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Whaley described the people she encountered as gracious, appreciative, helpful, and genuinely happy and proud of their culture, adding that the humanitarian efforts are both greatly needed and deeply valued.
Each day began with yoga and meditation, setting a reflective tone for the work ahead. Whaley says she especially enjoyed immersing herself in Indian culturelearning about local foods, the Hindi language, and regional geography. To bridge the language barrier, local students assisted as translators, Whaley citing her camaraderie with a 13-year-old translator in the village of Balwani.
Following some sightseeing and a long journey home, Whaley was back in action at her Northeast Ohio practice just two days laterjet lag and all. Looking forward, there are plans to expand podiatric services in future Yatras and Whaley welcomes inquiries on how to get involved.
KSUCPM thanks you for your commitment to meaningful care in Ohio and around the world!