by Shafiquejjaman Saikot1, Mostofa Kamal Chowdhury2 On 7 July 2025, community volunteers of the Compassionate Narayanganj project came together to host a unique and heartwarming event—the Fruit Festival—dedicated to bringing joy, comfort, and dignity to patients living with life-limiting illnesses.
Held at Narayanganj City Park, the gathering became a vibrant example of how simple gestures can transform ordinary moments into celebrations of life.
From the very beginning, the atmosphere was one of warmth and welcome. Volunteers decorated the park with colorful banners, creating a festive yet homely environment.
At the center stood a beautifully arranged fruit display showcasing seasonal favorites such as mangoes, bananas, guavas, and Burmese grapes. Neatly sliced and served in bowls, the fruits were shared among patients, each receiving a plate filled with love and care—including a boiled egg alongside the fresh offerings.
Beyond the food itself, what made the event truly memorable was the deep involvement of volunteers. Young adults, caregivers, and community members assisted patients with seating, feeding, and companionship. Gentle gestures—helping an elderly patient taste a slice of mango, or guiding a child through their fruit bowl—were met with bright smiles and grateful eyes. “I never thought I would laugh and enjoy like this again,” said one patient softly, as a volunteer held his hand.
The festival also became a two-way exchange of care. Patients offered their heartfelt prayers and best wishes to the volunteers and team members, acknowledging their dedication and kindness. “They gave us fruits, but more than that, they gave us company,” shared another patient. Volunteers, in turn, expressed their desire to organize more such events in the future, inspired by the joy they witnessed. “Seeing their smiles is the best reward—we realized how small actions can bring big comfort,” reflected one young volunteer.
The park resonated with soft laughter, meaningful conversations, and an overwhelming sense of belonging—a reminder that care is as much about emotional and social support as it is about medical needs. The Fruit Festival reflected the core philosophy of Compassionate Narayanganj: that palliative care is not confined to hospitals or medicines alone. True care involves embracing the whole person—acknowledging emotional struggles, creating social bonds, and celebrating dignity even in the face of illness.
As the afternoon came to a close, patients appeared more relaxed, families more hopeful, and volunteers more motivated. In a world where the needs of the seriously ill are too often overlooked, Compassionate Narayanganj continues to stand as a beacon of compassion, resilience, and shared humanity.
From March 2018 to June 2021, the Department of Palliative Medicine, Bangladesh Medical University, ran Compassionate Narayanganj with WHPCA and Narayanganj City Corporation. After a short fundraising gap, Phase 2 (2022–2025) began with support from AYAT Education and St Christopher’s Hospice, focusing on age-attuned care and integration into Bangladesh’s primary healthcare system. We are now planning Phase 3, aiming for long-term sustainability through strengthened service delivery, advocacy, and education.
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- Project Manager, Compassionate Narayanganj (Community-Based Palliative Care Project), Narayanganj, Bangladesh
- Associate Professor, Department of Palliative Medicine, Bangladesh Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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