The 25th edition of ‘Christmas with Patients’ was celebrated at Dr Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung. Initiated in 1999 by Wabang Kichu, the initiative was born out of a heartfelt desire to bring the joy of Christmas to those confined to hospital wards during the festive season.
Kichu began this tradition after realizing how isolating Christmas could be for patients away from family and friends. With a spirit of giving, he organized a small gathering featuring decorations, carols, music, and festive treats to ensure no one felt forgotten during the season. Over 25 years, it has grown into a cherished annual tradition supported by family, friends, neighbors, and local churches.
Talking to MT, Kichu reflected on the journey where he shared profound moments that defined the initiative. He recalled a moving encounter with a female patient who, upon hearing the carols, rose from her bed in tears and began praying, deeply touched by the occasion. “Such moments remind me how blessed this initiative is—not just for the patients but for everyone involved,” Kichu said.
He also highlighted the challenges some patients face, such as mothers unable to afford blankets for their newborns. This inspired the creation of a “Poor Patients Fund” to support underprivileged patients, he said. While government schemes and hospital support have eased some burdens in recent years, Kichu stressed the continuing need for kindness and generosity.
During the program, Molo Jamir amplified Kichu’s dream of establishing a prayer room at the hospital—a space for solace and comfort open to all faiths. He urged individuals and organizations to support this vision, emphasizing that collective effort could make it a reality.
The program, chaired by Wapangnaro Pongen, began with an invocation by Shilula Imchen, Pastor (Women) of MTBA, followed by Kichu’s heartfelt memoir on the history and significance of the initiative. Greetings were delivered by Imkongchuba, Chairman of the Mokokchung Municipal Council, and Chubasanen Ozukum, EAC.
The event featured a performance by the Medical Fellowship Choir, reflections by Dr S Marina Yaden, Medical Superintendent of IMDH, and a message from Yanglo Pongen, Pastor of MTBA. It concluded with a prayer led by Rev Chuba, Pastor of the Medical Fellowship, MTBA.
Later in the evening, Wabang Kichu and his family visited each ward at IMDH Mokokchung, sharing Christmas snacks, coffee, and prayers with the patients and their attendants, continuing a tradition he has upheld for the past 25 years.
(The reporter is an intern at Mokokchung Times)