Dr. Prosper Moh, an orthopedic surgeon at St. John of God Hospital in Duayaw Nkwanta, has dedicated over two decades to providing free orthopedic care to the people of Nandom, his hometown. Every year, he takes a month-long voluntary leave from his regular duties to offer his surgical expertise at St. Theresa’s Hospital in Nandom. This year’s outreach was no different, witnessing a remarkable influx of patients seeking Dr. Moh’s renowned skills. His unwavering commitment to serving the community, coupled with his exceptional surgical abilities, transformed the lives of nearly 800 outpatients. His dedication isn’t driven by financial gain, but by a profound sense of purpose and the satisfaction derived from alleviating suffering and improving the quality of life for those in need. Dr. Moh’s annual return to Nandom is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the profound impact a single individual can have on a community.
During his month-long service, Dr. Moh tackled a demanding schedule, performing 70 major surgeries and 40 minor procedures. The sheer volume of cases highlights the immense need for orthopedic care in the region and the significant burden shouldered by Dr. Moh. Patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, journeyed from various regions, including the Oti, Northern, Savannah, and Upper East Regions of Ghana, and even crossed borders from neighboring Burkina Faso, seeking relief from their orthopedic ailments. Dr. Moh’s reputation for excellence precedes him, drawing individuals from far and wide who place their trust in his expertise. His dedication extended beyond surgical interventions, encompassing valuable medical advice and guidance on healthy lifestyle practices. He emphasized the importance of regular exercise and cautioned against the overuse of painkillers for minor aches and pains, promoting a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Driven by a genuine passion for his profession, Dr. Moh considers orthopedics his “hobby,” a testament to his deep-seated commitment to healing and restoring mobility. He eschews financial rewards, finding fulfillment in the positive impact he makes on the lives of his patients. He acknowledges the prevalence of traditional bone-setting practices in the region but notes that many individuals seek his expertise when these traditional methods fail to provide relief. This highlights the critical role he plays in bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern medical interventions, offering advanced surgical solutions for complex orthopedic conditions. Despite the limited resources available at St. Theresa’s Hospital, Dr. Moh perseveres, demonstrating his resourcefulness and unwavering dedication to providing the best possible care to his patients. He doesn’t allow the constraints of his environment to deter him from his mission, further exemplifying his selfless service to the community.
Dr. Moh’s remarkable efforts are bolstered by the dedicated team at St. Theresa’s Hospital, particularly the theatre nurses who provide invaluable support during his intensive surgical schedule. He acknowledges their resilience and commitment, praising their ability to withstand long hours and demanding procedures, often assisting in up to eight surgeries in a single day. He recognizes their integral role in the success of his outreach, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to provide effective care. The mutual respect and admiration between Dr. Moh and the nursing staff underscore the importance of teamwork in achieving positive patient outcomes. Their combined dedication ensures that every individual receives the highest quality care, regardless of the challenges faced.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, St. Theresa’s Hospital presented Dr. Moh with a plaque of appreciation, a symbolic gesture reflecting the deep gratitude felt by the hospital staff and the community. Dr. Sebastian Yidana Ninimiya, the Medical Superintendent, lauded Dr. Moh’s unwavering commitment, highlighting his two decades of selfless service, provided entirely free of charge. Dr. Yidana emphasized the profound impact of Dr. Moh’s presence in Nandom, describing him as a “household name” synonymous with compassionate care. He underscored Dr. Moh’s reliability and willingness to respond whenever called upon, solidifying his reputation as a dependable and trusted healthcare provider within the community. The hospital’s recognition further emphasizes the profound impact Dr. Moh has had on the lives of countless individuals, solidifying his legacy as a compassionate and dedicated healer.
Dr. Prosper Moh’s annual return to Nandom transcends a simple medical outreach; it embodies a profound commitment to healing, inspiring hope, and serving the community. His actions speak volumes about the transformative power of selfless service. He serves not for personal gain or recognition, but out of a genuine love for his community and a deep-seated desire to alleviate suffering. His story is a testament to the difference one individual can make, even within the constraints of limited resources. Dr. Moh’s legacy serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the profound impact of unwavering dedication, compassionate care, and a genuine commitment to serving humanity. His annual pilgrimage of healing is a beacon of hope, illuminating the power of selfless service and the enduring impact of one man’s unwavering dedication to his community.
