Date: 17th May 2025
Venue: Purushottam Bhagchandka Academic School, Kolkata
Time: 09:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Special Olympics Bharat – West Bengal, under the able leadership of Mr. Asoke Chaki, Area Director and Secretary, organized a comprehensive Healthy Athlete Screening Program on 17th May 2025 at Purushottam Bhagchandka Academic School, the generous venue partner for the event. This impactful initiative aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of intellectually disabled athletes saw an enthusiastic participation of 200–250 athletes from various play and training centers across the state.
The event was graced by a distinguished panel of guests:
- Chief Guest: Mr. Kaushik Mukhopadhyay
- Special Guest: Ms. Madhupadna Andrews, Principal, PB Academic School
- Mrs. Arpita Sen, expert in Intellectual Disability
- Mrs. Lina Bardhan, Senior Advisor, Special Olympics Bharat West Bengal
- Mr. Suresh Kumar, Sr. Manager, Special Olympics Bharat
- Mrs. Vishakha Sharma, Patron Member, Special Olympics Bharat West Bengal
- Mr. Saikat Dey, Program Manager, Special Olympics Bharat West Bengal
The screening focused primarily on two health disciplines:
- Special Smiles – promoting oral hygiene and dental care.
- Opening Eyes – offering vision screenings and related advice.
Each athlete received individual attention, guidance, and screenings to help monitor and improve their health condition. These screenings are a core element of Special Olympics’ mission to provide inclusive healthcare to people with intellectual disabilities.
To ensure the athletes enjoyed a holistic and cheerful experience, a Funzone was also organized, filled with recreational and playful activities. A demonstration of the BOCCE game and Young Athletes activities was also conducted, showcasing the skills, joy, and spirit of inclusion that defines Special Olympics.
The event was further supported by:
- Volunteers from Boy Scouts of Bengal Tent, who extended immense help in managing the event smoothly.
- India Autism Center, the generous Food Partner, who ensured nutritious meals for all athletes and volunteers.
- Media coverage was provided by Sanmarg and Vishwamitra Media, helping amplify the voice and visibility of the cause.
- Lensokart, the official photography partner, beautifully captured every moment of compassion, joy, and empowerment.
Mr. PAWAN Kumar Patodia, President of Special Olympics Bharat – West Bengal, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all guests, volunteers, and partners whose support made the event a grand success. He emphasized the importance of such regular screenings and inclusive activities in building a healthier and more accepting world for persons with intellectual disabilities.
This program stands as a testimony to the power of community collaboration and inclusive efforts to promote health, happiness, and dignity for all.
