#international rehabilitation centre

[samarpanrecovery]

Embark on a healing journey with Samarpan, the international rehabilitation centre in India dedicated to your path of recovery and well-being. Samarpan Recovery provides international rehab facilities and an environment to feel comfortable in a journey of holistic recovery in physical, mental, and social aspects. Rediscover wellness and experience transformative healing at Samarpan Recovery, your top choice for international rehab in India, fostering a path to holistic recovery with expert care.

[sayruq]

Al Jazeera has obtained a copy of the Gaza ceasefire proposal that Hamas said it accepted on Monday. The deal, which was put forward by Egypt and Qatar, would come in three stages that would see an initial halt in the fighting leading to lasting calm and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Palestinian territory. The proposed agreement would also ensure the release of Israeli captives in Gaza as well as an unspecified number of Palestinians held in Israeli jails. Israel has said that it does not agree to the proposal but that it will engage in further talks to secure an agreement – all while pushing on with its assault on Gaza. Meanwhile, the United States, which is also involved in the negotiations, said it is reviewing the Hamas response. The basic principles for an agreement between the Israeli side and the Palestinian side in Gaza on the exchange of captives and prisoners between them and the return of sustainable calm. The framework agreement aims at: The release of all Israeli captives in the Gaza Strip, civilians or military, alive or otherwise, from all periods, in exchange for a number of prisoners held by Israel as agreed upon, and a return to a sustainable calm that leads to a permanent ceasefire and a withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, its reconstruction and the lifting of the siege. The framework agreement consists of three related and interconnected stages, which are as follows: The first stage (42 days) [Herein] a temporary cessation of military operations between the two parties, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces eastward and away from densely populated areas to a defined area along the border all along the Gaza Strip (including Wadi Gaza, known as the Netzarim Corridor, and Kuwait Roundabout, as below). All aviation (military and reconnaissance) in the Gaza Strip shall cease for 10 hours a day, and for 12 hours on the days when captives and prisoners are being exchanged. Internally displaced people in Gaza shall return to their areas of residence and Israel shall withdraw from Wadi Gaza, the Netzarim corridor, and the Kuwait Roundabout: On the third day (after the release of three captives), Israeli forces are to withdraw completely from al-Rashid Street in the east to Salah al-Din Street, and dismantle military sites and installations in this area. Displaced persons (unarmed) shall return to their areas of residence and all residents of Gaza shall be allowed freedom of movement in all parts of the Strip. Humanitarian aid shall be allowed in via al-Rashid Street from the first day without any obstacles. On the 22nd day (after the release of half the living civilian captives in Gaza, including female soldiers), Israeli forces are to withdraw from the centre of the Gaza Strip (especially the Netzarim/Martyrs Corridor and the Kuwait Roundabout axis), from the east of Salah al-Din Street to a zone along the border, and all military sites and installations are to be completely dismantled. Displaced people shall be allowed to return to their places of residence in the north of Gaza, and all residents to have freedom of movement in all parts of the Gaza Strip. Humanitarian aid, relief materials and fuel (600 trucks a day, including 50 fuel trucks, and 300 trucks for the north) shall be allowed into Gaza in an intensive manner and in sufficient quantities from the first day. This is to include the fuel needed to operate the power station, restart trade, rehabilitate and operate hospitals, health centres and bakeries in all parts of the Gaza Strip, and operate equipment needed to remove rubble. This shall continue throughout all stages.

Exchange of captives and prisoners between the two sides: During the first phase, Hamas shall release 33 Israeli captives (alive or dead), including women (civilians and soldiers), children (under the age of 19 who are not soldiers), those over the age of 50, and the sick, in exchange for a number of prisoners in Israeli prisons and detention centres, according to the following [criteria]: Hamas shall release all living Israeli captives, including civilian women and children (under the age of 19 who are not soldiers). In return, Israel shall release 30 children and women for every Israeli detainee released, based on lists provided by Hamas, in order of detention. Hamas shall release all living Israeli captives (over the age of 50), the sick, and wounded civilians. In return, Israel shall release 30 elderly (over 50) and sick prisoners for every Israeli captive, based on lists provided by Hamas, in order of detention. Hamas shall release all living Israeli female soldiers. In return, Israel shall release 50 prisoners (30 serving life sentences, 20 sentenced) for every Israeli female soldier, based on lists provided by Hamas.

The United Nations and its agencies, including UNRWA, and other international organisations, are to continue providing humanitarian services across the Gaza Strip. This shall continue throughout all stages of the agreement. Infrastructure (electricity, water, sewage, communications and roads) across the Gaza Strip shall be rehabilitated, and the equipment needed for civil defence allowed into Gaza to clear rubble and debris. This shall continue throughout all stages of the agreement. All necessary supplies and equipment to shelter displaced people who lost their homes during the war (a minimum of 60,000 temporary homes – caravans – and 200,000 tents) shall be allowed into Gaza. Throughout this phase, an agreed-upon number (not fewer than 50) of wounded military personnel will be allowed to travel through the Rafah crossing to receive medical treatment, and an increased number of travellers, sick and wounded, shall be allowed to leave through the Rafah crossing as restrictions on travellers are lifted. The movement of goods and trade will return without restrictions.

And that's just phase one. Read the rest of the article for the rest of the ceasefire proposal approved by Hamas.

[fairuzfan]

"We have come together as Palestinian academics and staff of Gaza universities to affirm our existence, the existence of our colleagues and our students, and the insistence on our future, in the face of all current attempts to erase us.

The Israeli occupation forces have demolished our buildings but our universities live on. We reaffirm our collective determination to remain on our land and to resume teaching, study, and research in Gaza, at our own Palestinian universities, at the earliest opportunity.

We call upon our friends and colleagues around the world to resist the ongoing campaign of scholasticide in occupied Palestine, to work alongside us in rebuilding our demolished universities, and to refuse all plans seeking to bypass, erase, or weaken the integrity of our academic institutions. The future of our young people in Gaza depends upon us, and our ability to remain on our land in order to continue to serve the coming generations of our people.

We issue this call from beneath the bombs of the occupation forces across occupied Gaza, in the refugee camps of Rafah, and from the sites of temporary new exile in Egypt and other host countries. We are disseminating it as the Israeli occupation continues to wage its genocidal campaign against our people daily, in its attempt to eliminate every aspect of our collective and individual life.

Our families, colleagues, and students are being assassinated, while we have once again been rendered homeless, reliving the experiences of our parents and grandparents during the massacres and mass expulsions by Zionist armed forces in 1947 and 1948.

Our civic infrastructure – universities, schools, hospitals, libraries, museums and cultural centres – built by generations of our people, lies in ruins from this deliberate continuous Nakba. The deliberate targeting of our educational infrastructure is a blatant attempt to render Gaza uninhabitable and erode the intellectual and cultural fabric of our society. However, we refuse to allow such acts to extinguish the flame of knowledge and resilience that burns within us.

Allies of the Israeli occupation in the United States and United Kingdom are opening yet another scholasticide front through promoting alleged reconstruction schemes that seek to eliminate the possibility of independent Palestinian educational life in Gaza. We reject all such schemes and urge our colleagues to refuse any complicity in them. We also urge all universities and colleagues worldwide to coordinate any academic aid efforts directly with our universities.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the national and international institutions that have stood in solidarity with us, providing support and assistance during these challenging times. However, we stress the importance of coordinating these efforts to effectively reopen Palestinian universities in Gaza.

We emphasise the urgent need to reoperate Gaza’s education institutions, not merely to support current students, but to ensure the long-term resilience and sustainability of our higher education system. Education is not just a means of imparting knowledge; it is a vital pillar of our existence and a beacon of hope for the Palestinian people.

Accordingly, it is essential to formulate a long-term strategy for rehabilitating the infrastructure and rebuilding the entire facilities of the universities. However, such endeavours require considerable time and substantial funding, posing a risk to the ability of academic institutions to sustain operations, potentially leading to the loss of staff, students, and the capacity to reoperate.

Given the current circumstances, it is imperative to swiftly transition to online teaching to mitigate the disruption caused by the destruction of physical infrastructure. This transition necessitates comprehensive support to cover operational costs, including the salaries of academic staff.

Student fees, the main source of income for universities, have collapsed since the start of the genocide. The lack of income has left staff without salaries, pushing many of them to search for external opportunities.

Beyond striking at the livelihoods of university faculty and staff, this financial strain caused by the deliberate campaign of scholasticide poses an existential threat to the future of the universities themselves.

Thus, urgent measures must be taken to address the financial crisis now faced by academic institutions, to ensure their very survival. We call upon all concerned parties to immediately coordinate their efforts in support of this critical objective.

The rebuilding of Gaza’s academic institutions is not just a matter of education; it is a testament to our resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to securing a future for generations to come.

The fate of higher education in Gaza belongs to the universities in Gaza, their faculty, staff, and students and to the Palestinian people as a whole. We appreciate the efforts of peoples and citizens around the world to bring an end to this ongoing genocide.

We call upon our colleagues in the homeland and internationally to support our steadfast attempts to defend and preserve our universities for the sake of the future of our people, and our ability to remain on our Palestinian land in Gaza. We built these universities from tents. And from tents, with the support of our friends, we will rebuild them once again."

[girlactionfigure]

THURSDAY HERO: Dr. Ludwig Guttman 

Dr. Ludwig Guttmann was a Jewish-German neurosurgeon who had the radical idea that patients with spinal cord injuries could be competitive athletes. He created the Paralympic Games and forever changed the way society views disabled people – and the way they view themselves.

Ludwig was born in Germany in 1899 to a religious family. At age 18, he volunteered in a hospital that treated mining workers. One day, a young man was admitted who had broken his back in a mining accident. The patient was paralyzed from the waist down, but the rest of his body was strong. Ludwig was shocked when the hospital staff told him there was nothing to be done for people with spinal cord injuries but wait for them to die. They wrapped this vigorous young man’s body in plaster and moved him to an isolation wing, where he developed sepsis and died five weeks later. “Although I saw many more victims suffering the same fate,” Ludwig said, “it was the picture of that young man which remained indelibly fixed in my memory.”

After attending medical school in Freiburg, Ludwig worked with Europe’s leading neurologist Dr. Otfrid Foerster. In 1928, Ludwig started a neurosurgical unit at a hospital in Hamburg, and by 1933 he was considered one of the top neurosurgeons in Germany. When the Nazis came to power Jews were banned from practicing medicine and Ludwig lost his job. In 1939 he left Germany with his family and moved to Oxford, England, where he worked as a researcher.

In 1943, Ludwig was asked by the British Government to direct a new Spinal Injury Centre at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. He agreed to take the job, but only if he was free to treat patients as he saw fit without any outside interference. Ludwig was determined to change the medical establishment’s defeatist attitude toward spinal cord injuries. He believed that patients could lead full, independent and happy lives. At Stoke Mandeville, Ludwig instituted educational programs so that patients could learn new skills to make them employable. These programs included carpentry, typing, and watch repair.

A crucial part of the Stoke Mandeville rehabilitation program was athletics. Since there was virtually no precedent for wheelchair sports, Ludwig and his staff had to make them up. The first sport was wheelchair polo using walking sticks and a puck, soon to be replaced with wheelchair basketball. The first athletic competition at Stoke Mandeville took place on July 28, 1948 – the same day as the London Olympics. Fourteen injured service people competed (12 men and 2 women) in one sport, archery. A trophy cup was awarded to the winner.

Only one year later, the competition had grown to include more hospitals, more participants, and more sports. Ludwig said, “I foresaw the time when this sports event would be truly international and the Stoke Mandeville Games would achieve world fame as the disabled person’s equivalent of the Olympic Games.” In 1952, a group of disabled Dutch veterans became the first competitors from overseas. By 1954, there were athletes from Canada, Australia, Finland, Egypt and Israel. In the late 1950’s, Ludwig reached out to the Olympic Games Committee to see if the Stoke Mandeville Games could be scheduled to coincide with the 1960 Olympics in Rome. The Olympic Committee agreed, and disabled athletes came to Rome from 21 countries, playing in the same facilities and sharing the same accommodations as the able-bodied athletes.

The games became known as the Paralympics. Ludwig died in 1980, but his dream continues to grow. The Paralympics now features over 4000 athletes competing in 28 sports.

For refusing to accept the status quo, and giving hope and inspiration to generations of disabled athletes, we honor Dr. Ludwig Guttmann as this week’s Thursday Hero at Accidental Talmudist.

[dimensionzero]

so anyway if y'all've got an insatiable craving after atsv, here's some spiderverse fics that deserve some love!

gotta start with Spiders' Night Out! by Chaos_and_Sparkles, my favourite of the rapidly forming pavitr-and-hobie-rob-the-british-museum genre --- in this one, their master plan drags the Spot along for the ride and it's great

courage (never forgotten) by stars_and_scars1 is an interesting character study on miles during atsv. I'm very intrigued by the writing style. it might go well with Look at me, falling fast by umwelt, gwen's POV of her visit with miles, which manages to be extremely funny and kind of heartbreaking at the same time.

speaking of gwen, State of Grace by Fichistory is gwen's POV of itsv, and I love her and miles in this one, I will be imagining it as her inner monologue every time I rewatch itsv after this. I'm also obsessed with how 14Passionz describes earth-65's mood-ring watercolour style throughout ink pallette, a great fic to cry about over gwen and her dad. and rounding out my gwen recs is the mark of a true spider-man by joshriku, in which gwen crowd-sources the meaning of being spider-man and has a conversation with peter b about, y'know. the elephant in the room.

if you're in the mood for a laugh, please read restorative justice by Nanashi07, the one where miles decides to rehabilitate miguel using restorative justice techniques while gwen and hobie heckle them and peter b cackles from the sidelines. for a slightly angstier post-atsv fic, there's also i only see you in the city light by yukla, in which miles has struggles and hobie is a bro. and you can find yet more post-atsv fics with the run run fast as you can series by Quillium (speaking of Quillium, they've also got equifinality, in which prowler!miles gets forcibly befriended by spider-man. while trying to murder him. it's complicated.); my favourite of the series has to be pavitr prabhakar and being spider-man, a character study that addresses how pav must feel over his friends knowing about canon events and not telling him in a way that feels very true to his character.

speaking of pavitr, Chaos_and_Sparkles is also writing a character study/speculative backstory for him in One Must Imagine Sisyphus Happy, which starts off very sweet and funny and halfway through takes a deep dive into angst. if you want sweet and funny all the way through, try na dekhi koi aisi girl by whatcaniwriteinthis, a pavitr/gayatri meet-cute. Who wants to punch a fascist? by I_have_hella_nice_abbs is a different kind of sweet and funny with noir and hobie bonding, three guesses how--- I like noir's internal monologue in this one a lot. and speaking of hobie, my favourite fic centred around him has to be Teenage Anarchist by gender_bender08, a character study that runs from his recruitment into spider-society to his exit-stage-center from atsv. it does both hobie and his relationships really really well.

and lastly, this is technically an older one but I can't make a spiderverse fic rec and not recommend Spider-Man Is Dead (Long Live Spider-Man) by aetataureate, it's a series of character studies on ripeter, gwen, peter b, and miles during itsv and it's insane how few hits it has for being some of my favourite pieces of writing in anything ever. anyway that's all for now, have fun y'all

[covid-safer-hotties]

Long Covid could be costing NZ $2 billion a year in lost productivity: Experts urge preventive action - Published Sept 9, 2024

Long Covid could be costing the economy of Aotearoa New Zealand at least NZ$2 billion per year from reduced worker productivity, and that’s excluding health costs.

In the latest Briefing from the Public Health Communication Centre – Long Covid: High economic burden justifies further preventive efforts – researchers summarise local and international evidence about the impacts of Long Covid on productivity.

University of Auckland health economist Professor Paula Lorgelly highlights estimates from a recently-published economic analysis in Australia that modelled the effects of Long Covid on productivity and GDP. “The research suggests that Long Covid is likely costing the Australian economy approximately AU$9.6 billion, equivalent to 0.5% of Australia’s GDP. And that’s a conservative estimate.”

Professor Lorgelly says it is likely that Long Covid is having a comparable economic impact in NZ where a 0.5% reduction in GDP translates to approximately NZ$2 billion per year. “While this is an estimate, it’s plausible that Long Covid significantly impacts productivity here. Further evidence of productivity harm comes from the Long COVID Registry Aotearoa which recently reported that individuals with Long Covid are working between seven and ten fewer hours a week than before the pandemic.”

Lead author Associate Professor Amanda Kvalsvig from the University of Otago says the NZ Government needs to respond with urgency to worldwide evidence of ongoing harms from Covid-19. “High year-round infection and reinfection rates mean that each week, another cohort of New Zealanders enters the Long Covid lottery.”

She says NZ needs to step up preventive action, including improving the air quality in schools and other workplaces to stop the virus from spreading so easily indoors. “Covid-19 vaccines are proven to reduce the risk of Long Covid and that knowledge should be reflected in NZ’s vaccine strategy. Eligibility for boosters should be expanded to younger age groups with a strong emphasis on occupations at increased risk such as teachers.”

Dr. Kvalsvig also emphasises the need for occupational and social support, including extended sick leave policies and comprehensive rehabilitation programs.

Professor Lorgelly says that while the Australian research has given us an indicator of the huge productivity loss NZ is facing, robust local studies are needed to quantify the true cost.

“Without accurate data, it will be difficult for policymakers to make informed decisions about how to efficiently and equitably protect New Zealanders from the health and economic harms of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.”

[maximumwobblerbanditdonut]

2024 Paralympics 🇫🇷 Versatility is the mantra of wheelchair fencing 🤺

Unlike their able-bodied counterparts, fencers at the Paralympic Games switch between weapons to compete in multiple disciplines, an aspect that presents various challenges. There are three different weapons used in fencing: the foil, épée and sabre - each of which has different compositions, techniques and scoring target areas. All weapons in general, are based on the same basic set of rules making it relatively easy to switch between foil, épée and sabre.

Why is everyone speaking French? 🇫🇷

Like its Olympic equivalent, the official language of wheelchair fencing is French. The referee will say “En garde” ( On Guard, come to the start line), “Prete”(or “Ready” if English), then “Allez” (literally “Go!”; or “Fence if English) to start bouts.🗡️ 🤺 ⚔️

The use of French dates back to the 19th century when Napoleon established fencing as a mandatory discipline in the military. Fencing grew in popularity in France and made its way to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Wheelchair fencing was pioneered about half a century later by Ludwig Guttmann at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital in England UK 🇬🇧 after World War II as part of rehabilitation for patients with spinal cord injuries. It made its Paralympic debut at the inaugural Games in 1960.

Historical, Stoke mandeville games, 1955 two female competitors in wheelchairs taking part in the fencing competition, Stoke Mandeville hospital, Aylesbury, Bucks, England, UK.

Sir Ludwig Guttmann CBE* FRS** (3 July 1899 – 18 March 1980) was a German-British neurologist who established the Stoke Mandeville Games. In September 1943, the British government asked Guttmann to establish the National Spinal Injuries Centre at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Buckinghamshire. The initiative came from the Royal Air Force (RAF) to ensure the treatment and rehabilitation of pilots with spine injuries, "who often crashed on approach with their bombers damaged".

When the centre opened on 1 February 1944, the United Kingdom's first specialist unit for treating spinal injuries, appointed Guttmann its director (a position he held until 1966). He believed that sport was an important method of therapy for the rehabilitation of injured military personnel, helping them build up physical strength and self-respect.

Sir Ludwig Guttmann and the birth of the Paralympics.

An ever-present in the Paralympic sports programme since Rome 1960, wheelchair fencing is governed by the International Wheelchair & Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS).

The wheelchair fencing competition at the Paralympic Games is in full swing, taking place under the prestigious glass dome of the Grand Palais in the heart of Paris.

📹 Behind the scenes: the process of getting ready for wheelchair fencing 🤺 And yes, well done to the volunteers, well done to the technical Teams.

📹 Passage en coulisses: les détails de la préparation d'une compétition d'escrime fauteuil🤺 Et oui bravo aux Volontaires. Bravo aux Équipes techniques

*CBE Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE)

**FRS Fellowship of the Royal Society (FRS, ForMemRS and HonFRS) is an award granted by the Fellows of the Royal Society of London.

#Paris2024 #wheelchairfencing #Paralympics #escrimepourfauteuil #SirLudwigGuttmann #NationalSpinalInjuries #Buckinghamshire #CentreatStokeMandevilleHospital

Posted 6th September 2024

[jordanianroyals]

28 November 2024: Crown Prince Hussein inaugurated the revamped Ghor Al Mazraa Comprehensive Healthcare Centre aimed at improving the quality of services.

He listened to briefings by Health Minister Firas Al Hawari and Himmetna Charity Organisation CEO Fadia Samara on the project, which comes as part of an agreement between the ministry and Himmetna to revamp 25 comprehensive healthcare centres in various regions of the Kingdom.

Hawari said the inauguration of such a centre aligns with the Economic Modernisation Vision and the Ministry of Health's strategy aiming to provide the best comprehensive medical care to citizens and contribute to alleviating pressure on hospitals.

For her part, Samara said the project introduced internal medicine, orthopaedic, family and community medicine, and paediatric clinics; a physiotherapy department, a recovery and rehabilitation department, a mammogram room, a telemedicine room, and a waiting system; as well as the expansion of the emergency department, the laboratory, internal clinics, maternal and child healthcare, and dental clinics.

The project was built on an area of 1,916 square metres, at a cost amounting to JD2.25 million collected as financial and in-kind donations from citizens, the private sector, and civil society organisations.

The Princess Basma Comprehensive Healthcare Centre in Amman’s Al Muhajireen area was revamped and inaugurated by the Crown Prince last year as per the signed agreement, under which Himmetna provides funding, planning and supervision, and the Ministry of Health provides logistical and administrative support, as well as medical equipment.

After meeting with donors who supported the Karak centre revamp project, Crown Prince Hussein expressed appreciation of Himmetna organisation, the donors, and all workers at the centre, stressing that the project is an example of successful partnerships between the government, civil society organisations, and the private sector to improve the quality of services for citizens.

[floriianthefool]

Announcement y'all!!

I'm posting a new fic (another reader-insert) with mer Bruce Wayne as the love interest. I've been posting it on ao3 for the past month as it's over 10k, but, just wanted to post the blurb and first chapter here for advertising reasons.

Hope y'all enjoy!

-

A dark shape glides just under the surface, fins slicing through the waves. The water churns, a thick shiny tail smacking the surface.

He presses down from above, you bent over backwards on the railing, clutching at his shirt, feeling weightless. “Please, don’t do this. Please! Don’t let go!” Eyes burning, you try to grab him.

He lets go.

You hit the water with a splash.

In which you and Gotham Bay Aquarium's newest resident meet, and the rest, as they say, is history.

-

“Creepy little fucks, aren’t they?”

You merely hum, continuing to gaze into the dark blue waters of the tank, encompassing the entire wall at the end of the winding hallway, thick glass reaching the ceiling clear and smooth. Undulating waves of blue light wash over the room, the two of you all that was left of the evening shift, even the last of the cleaners all gone. Quiet. Silence thick like water around you, a muffled quality to the air, submerged in the microcosm of that moment.

“Very creepy,” you agree as a dark shape glides through the shoulder-high swaying sea grass planted at the bottom of the tank, lit up by the sea grass’s dim glow.

You could stay like this for an eternity, just you and Michael, gazing into the tank as the world went on beyond the walls of Gotham Bay Rehabilitation Centre and Aquarium. Just disappear for a bit, lose yourself for a fraction of eternity. Finally do the soul-searching you had told your mother this internship would grant you.

A hand briefly brushes against your own, soft, lightly calloused. “Lost in your head there for a bit, were you?”

“Just thinking,” you say, the skin between your eyebrows pinched as you cross your arms, uneasy. Something flutters in your stomach.

You had thought Michael would be over this, this thing he saw between you that you couldn’t bring yourself to name, shame and embarrassment clogging your throat. What would you mother think? No. What was it with men, what was it with men and their obsession with viewing romance between any man and woman who held even the slightest cordial relationship with one another. What was it with Michael. He had been a good friend. A great friend. A fellow inexperienced intern to get berated with by Crane, to gossip with, to have fun with. He had been a good friend (and maybe, maybe he had made you feel less lonely).

You had hoped he would stay your friend.

Eyes resolutely staying on the tank, avoiding Michael’s eyes, your gaze locks onto the dark shape once more as it grows closer to where the two of you stand. Smooth, long, and lithe, fins gliding through the water seamlessly. It stills, gaze sharp, cutting despite the metre thick glass between you. Head tilting for but a brief moment, it turns, gliding up and out of sight into floor two of three of the tank aquarium, the tank spanning three floors, and only the first and second available to the public, what made the aquarium internationally famous despite its location in Gotham, New Jersey, the cesspit of the east coast.

At least it wasn’t Bludhaven.

“Well, that was weird,” Michael comments.

You can’t help but snort, hardened resolve cracking as the forest between you melts away. “You scared h- it, dude, one look at your ugly mug and zip.” You mime a fish zooming by.

He cracks a grin, shaking his head, chestnut curls swaying with the movement. “You sure it was my mug and wasn’t yours?”

“Hey!”

“Woah, kidding, kidding,” he grins, arms raised in peace, “didn’t mean to offend, princess.”

You huff, rolling your eyes. It was good to have him back to normal, not that strange on-edge state that had defined your relationship for the past two weeks. Your stomach settles. It was good to have your friend back.

“Well, not to kill the fun, princess, but I think we should start locking up,” he says, walking backwards away from the tank.

Not looking away from the tank, you call your agreement.

The feeling is back. Not the cutting gaze, the knife just grazing your carotid artery, the animal part of your brain on edge. No. It was the other feeling. The heaviness. The weight of eyes pressing down, ever-observant, ever-present. No particular emotion, just that heaviness settling down upon you, inescapable and molasses thick.

With one last glance to the top of the tank, you turn to join Michael, ignoring the feel of eyes on your back.

“Yo, Mick, slow dow…” you trail off as he saunters by the staff-only door. “Mick, where’re you going?”

“To lock up.”

“Then come on,” you say, gripping the door handle as he continues on his merry jaunt. The fluttering in your stomach is back, faster than before.

What is he doing?

“Idiot,” you hiss before scurrying after him. “Dude,” you say as you grip his arm,” what are you doing?”

“Sadly, not that hot babe from this morning,” he quips, winking, still walking down the hallway, still pulling you with him. As he heads in the direction of the aquarium entrance, he flexes the bicep under your hands, and you scoff.

“Dude, stop being so immature. I mean, why aren’t we locking up right now. Where are you going?”

He finally stills, brown-eyed stare crinkled in a smile. It doesn’t ease your nerves. “I thought we’d start bottoms up first today.” At your surprise, he flushes. “That’s if you don’t mind. You don’t, do you?”

You glance at the manta ray tank the two of you had stopped by, a large ray gliding past at that very moment. You fight back your momentary sense of awe before turning back to Michael. Something loosens within you. It was just Micheal being dumb as usual, forgetting to tell you stuff until the last moment. “I don’t mind, but you should have told me instead of running off. Plus, why bottoms up?”

“Well,” he says, other arm up and scrunching his curls between thick fingers for but a moment. He tugs at one splayed across his forehead and drooping over his eye. “If we did it bottoms up, the last thing we’d see before leaving’d be the main tank, y’know? Thought it’d be cool.”

He was so… strange today. You don’t think you’ve ever seen a Michael this nervous before. An easily flustered and blushy Michael.

You let go of his arm, crossing your own. “Okay, cool,” you say. “Let’s go.”

And so the two of you lock up. Switching off lights, adjusting water temperatures, changing tank lighting, feeding, recording measurements, administering medicine, cleaning tanks, locking doors, and more. Much, much, much more.

Finally, exhausted and sweaty and stinky, smelling of fish, you arrive outside the observation room for the aquarium’s biggest tank. It’s star. It’s prize. The pearl of the east coast.

A similarly tired and sweaty and stinky Michael trudges up behind you.

“Hurry up,” you pant, resting your forehead on the cool metal of the door. You pull at your blue t-shirt, the weave sticky and clinging to your skin. Why couldn’t they have designed a better uniform? You could feel your trousers sticking to you as well. “Michael,” you call again.

“Coming, just- just give me a minute,” he huffs, loud footsteps growing closer. “Let- let me just catch my breath. Just a second.”

He sags onto you as he reaches the door, sweat slick on his face.

“Gross,” you mutter, reaching for the handle.

A hand drops on yours, heavy.

“Ow!” You jolt. “Dude, what’s your problem!” You cradle your hand as it stings, throbbing in time with your pulse. You blink back sudden tears.

“Sorry, sorry,” he rushes, sweaty face turning red.

“You should have thought of that before you tried to break my hand!”

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.” He reaches for you and you flinch, backing away from the door. His gaze darts between you and the door, your hand and the door handle, before finally settling on your face. “I’m sorry, I am so sorry.”

“Then why did you do that,” you hiss, scowling.

He scratches his neck, eyes once more darting away before he forces them back on you. “It’s just, don’t you want to see the tank before we leave?”

“No.”

“Oh come on,” he groans. He says your name and then, “don’t you want just a glance. Just one. Crane isn’t here to tell us off, we can just take a peek and then go. Just a peek. A quick looksy. We won’t get a look like that again.”

“We can’t even go near the tank, it’s too dangerous by ourselves.”

“From above then, on the walkway.” At your raised brow, he rolls his eyes. “Don’t be such a wimp. Just a look. I’ll go by myself if you won’t come,” he says, moving away, away to the door leading to the main tank.

You start towards the door, glance back at Michael. Still aching fingers curving around the cool handle, you glance at him again. He was really going alone, just to look into the tank. By himself. Alone. No one to call for help to if he fell in. Hand curled around the handle, metal warming, you glance back after him again.

Idiot.

“Michael, wait up,” you call, running after him. He slips through the door, letting lose a brief bark of laughter. You and Michael. Michael and you. You always running after him as he did something stupid.

Slipping through the door, you slow as you follow him to the stairs leading to the walkways, one of two intersecting at the centre of the tank, high above the waves.

“Just a peek,” you call. “Just one, then we need to switch off the lights.” You pull yourself up the stairs, gripping the cold railings.

“Yeah, yeah, now come on!” he laughs.

Rolling your eyes, you hurry, water-proof boots thunking on the metal. “I’m coming, I’m coming.”

“Hah! Coming.”

“Idiot,” you say as you join him at the intersection. “At least be creative.”

“Hey, hey, just didn’t want to offend you, y’know.” One side of his mouth quirks up into a smile. “Women don’t like it, y’know. They like gentlemen.”

“And I suppose you’re an expert.” You smile back, leaning on the rib-high railing.

“That’s me,” he says as he joins you. “Michael Wellings, knower of women.”

You just snort.

For a moment, there’s silence as you both gaze down into the undulating waters of the tank. There is a dark shape, long and lean, just below the surface. It cuts through the water, twisting and turning, staying near the surface.

This is nice. Just like the old times. Well, not that old, but still. It was nice just… hanging out with Michael.

“Well, this was nice.” You turn to him, smile faltering at his stare, emotionless, his face blank. His face twitches, a barely there pull at his muscles before he smiles back, wide, teeth gleaming. “Michael-“

“So, um,” he stops. Another pull at his muscles, a twitch. A strain to his smile. “About, about last week, did you change your mind?”

“My mind? About wha-“

“Oh, y’know. My offer.”

Oh God, not this again. Your smile drops, a furrow developing between your brow. You can’t you can’t believe him.

Just, just men and their fucking audacity.

“I can’t believe you, dude, did you-“

“Just answer the question,” he interrupts, still smiling, still strained, still tense. He clenches his fists.

“No!” you explode. “No, I didn’t change my mind! Did you bring me up here just to fucking corner me. Get me alone and-"

“Why? I’ve been so nice and-“

“So what! Being nice entitles you to a relationship!”

Your stomach churns, the butterflies now fucking elephants. You clench and unclench your fists, face and ears hot, as if steaming.

“No! But, but you led me on-“

“I didn’t lead you on! I just wanted to be your friend! Your friend!” Your heart is thundering in your chest, a lump at the back of your throat, eyes stinging.

“Why can’t you just like me?!” He finally explodes, snarling. Face red and twisted, he’s unrecognisable. He strides forwards and you back away, jittery as he crowds you against the railing, the cold metal digging into your spine. Oh God, he was so angry. Furious. “I have been so nice to you. No one else wanted to hang out with you, no one except me! Me! And you fucking led me on! Am I not good enough? Am I-“

“Michael-“

“Shut up! Just shut the fuck up!” He’s panting, a vein throbbing on his forehead, his shout echoing around the room of the tank. You lean further back as he crowds in, neck craning over the side of the railing as he braces his hands on your shoulders, still pushing in.

He’s too close. Too close.

Eyes blurring, you grip the railing, jittery and shaky and weak. You need to calm him down. Get him to calm down and step back and give you come space. Your breath speeds up, head pounding to the beat of your galloping pulse.

“Michael-“

“It’s the fish, isn’t it?”

“Wha-“

“It’s the fish.” He steps back and you crumple into yourself, sucking in great heaves of air, gasping, shaky hands grasping at the cloth of your trousers at the knee. You need to calm down. Calm down.

But your breathing stays rapid, stays harsh and quick as you can’t breathe.

You grip your knees, nails digging in. Grounding you. “M- Michael, what are you-“

“Quiet!”

You glance up. He’s calmer, red seeping away, breathing heavily through his nose. He glances down, eyes arctic cold. Your breath hitches as he leans down, crowding your space. You press back, metal digging into your spine. “Michael, Mi-“

He grabs you.

You scream, thrashing in his grip. “Michael! Michael! Let go! Please, let go!”

He struggles up, arms tight and bruising.

“No, NO!” you sob. “Michael! No! Please.” You’re still screaming as you near the edge. This can’t be happening. This can’t be happening! He wouldn’t do this! You have to be dreaming. Just dreaming. You twist in his grip, buckling, heaving, scrabbling at his shirt. “Let go!” you scream. “LET GO!” You rake your nails down the side of his face.

“AGH!” he screams, stumbling, and for but a brief moment, his grip loosens.

You twist, thrashing, kicking, pulling at the iron grip around your wrists. “Let go! Let go! You fucking bas-“

He slams you into the railing. Suddenly weightless, top half hanging over the edge. Michael above pressing down, you scrabble at his shirt. “Michael! Michael, just-“

His grip on your wrist tightens for just an instant, a small fraction of eternity, a grain of sand in the hourglass of time.

He lets go.

You hit the water with a splash.

-

And that's all for today folks! The rest is up on ao3, hope you enjoy!!

[samarpanrecovery]

In the landscape of de-addiction treatment in India, Samarpan Recovery stands as a testament to the transformative power of a holistic approach to addiction treatment in India. By emphasizing the crucial role of family and community in overcoming addiction, Samarpan not only aids individuals in their addiction recovery but also contributes to the broader societal shift needed to address addiction effectively. Gain profound insights into the dynamics shaping an effective de-addiction in India.

[lgbtqiamuslimpedia]

LGBTQI+ rights in Somalia 🇸🇴

LGBTQIA+ people of Somalia face severe challenges, not faced by non–LGBTQI+ residents. LGBTQ+ rights are at the worst level in Somalia since rise of political islamization & terror. LGBTQI+ Somalians are regularly prosecuted by the state and additionally face stigmatization among the broader population.

Legality of Homosexuality

In Somalia the judiciary collectively relies on sharia, xeer (traditional and customary law) and colonial penal codes. Penal code article 409 Somali civil law criminalizes same-sex sexual activity. Even sex outside the traditional marriage is punishable by up to death in areas controlled by Islamist groups.

According to Somali Penal code of Article 409, “Sexual intercourse with a person of the same-sex is punishable by imprisonment from three months to three years. An "act of lust" other than sexual intercourse is punishable by a prison term of two months to two years. A security measure may be added to a sentence for crimes referred to in Articles 407, 408 & 409. This is normally police surveillance — to guarantee that the person convicted does not engage in these activities again" [source:Sexuality and Eroticism Among Males in Moslem Societies]

Same-sex sexual activity is punishable by up to death in areas controlled by Al-Shabab as well as in Jubaland. Territories that controlled by Jihadist organization Harakat al-Shabaab enacts a strict interpretation of shariah which explicitly outlaws homosexuality & gender variance.

History:

In 1925, the Indian Penal Code of 1860 was first applied in British-occupied Somali regions to criminalise homosexuality. In 1940, Italy conquered British Somaliland and annexed it into the Italian East Africa. While Italy didn't have sodomy laws since 1890, the Fascist regime still punished queers. In 1941, the British re-conquered British Somaliland and re-instated the Indian Penal Code of 1860.

In 1964, a new penal code came into force in the Somali Republic. The code states that "Whoever has carnal intercourse with a person of the same sex shall be punished, where the act does not constitute a more serious crime, with imprisonment from three months to three years. Where the act committed is an act of lust different from carnal intercourse, the punishment imposed shall be reduced by one-third." In 1972 the code has since been abolished by the UK after seeing it as one of the most discriminating laws crafted by a former world power. In 1973, after the independence, Somalia again brought the colonial anti-homosexual law.

Discrimination,Violence

Most of the LGBTQ+ Somalis keep their sexuality a secret cause bringing it out into the open would attract potential threats from islamist group, or armed gangs Many flee their homes to escape possible torture or “honour killing. Some become accustomed with living double lives in somali society.

In Somaliland there are so called ‘rehabilitation centres’ for conversion therapy of children, teenagers, and adolescents, those who have fallen victim to these centres are believed to have acted against the values of the State through engaging in homosexual acts or transgressing gender roles. In June 2011, the UN Human Rights Council passed a resolution against human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Sources indicate that Somalia/Somaliland voted against the resolution (ibid.; IGLHRC 17 June 2011).

In 2001, a Somali lesbian couple in Puntland, northeast Somalia was executed after the local Islamic government found out they were living as a married couple. In 19 February, They were sentenced to death by an Islamic court in Bosaso. The case has also achieved some international attentions. As reports of the death sentence spread around the world, authorities in Puntland began a campaign to deny it. According to the U.S. Department of State's 2010 Human Rights Report " there was no public discussion of this LGBTQI+ issue in any region of the country[...]" and also reported "there were reports of societal violence or discrimination based on sexual orientation & gender identity.''

On 10 January 2013, al-Shabaab officially announced that it had executed a teenage boy and young man for engaging in gay sex. On 15 March 2013, Al‑Shabaab stoned that teenage guy to death.In 2016, an anonymous women rights activist somehow managed to flee somalia before her scheduled death penalty.When her sexual orientation was revealed by an acquaintance she faced much harassment & hostility. According to activist Abdinoor Farah, “jihadist armed gangs like al-Shabaab, have publicised their intent to enforce harsh punishments against adultery and homosexuality as a means of attracting funding from religious groups.A careful analysis of past prosecution cases has never been conducted fairly. It has been in total disregard of Sharia law[...]”.

According to 2017 report by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that ''LGBTQI+ people face numerous societal, cultural challenges as well as legislative barriers.On 10th January 2017, al-Shabaab announced that it had executed a teenage boy and young man in Middle Juba for engaging in sodomy.

The US Department of State 2020 report noted that, ''There were few reports of violence or discrimination against LGBTQ+ community. It did however cite anecdotal information which indicated that some families sent children suspected of being gay to reform schools.''

Recognition of Gender Identity

Somalia does not officially recognized a third gender or non-binary gender (jinsi saddexaad). The right to change legal gender is also a taboo thing in Somalia and that is not officially recognised nor outlawed by the state.

Transgender or gender-diverse folks are known as Labeeb in Somali culture. Labeeb are assigned male at birth but do not express their gender according to rigid gender norms. Possibly they can face troubles if they break strict societal norms & Somali's Sharia law.

LGBTQI+ Activism

There are no self-identified LGBTQI+ organisations in Somalia & Somaliland. UN & some human rights groups are working underground to help Somali queers & sexual/gender minorities to escape from home. Most of the LGBTQIA+ activism are based in Somali diaspora.

Somali Humanitarian and Development Action is an organization located in Somalia that works with by ILGA to help sexual & gender minorities. Qaniisiinta Soomaaliyeed (English: Queer Somalis) a community based organisation was founded by LGBTQ+ Somalis in Addis Ababa. The org. never was officially recognized by government. Due to lack of an official recognition, it did very little lobbying more than report on the plights of Somali LGBTQ+ community. The org. co-hosted some meetings with small rights groups, acting as a link to the outside world.

Somali LGBTQI+ Activism in diaspora:

In diaspora Queer Somalis faces same challenges like in their home country. However they are very open about themselves In diaspora.

In Minnesota, where a large population of muslim Somalis live, Somali politician Ilhan Omar actively advocates for queer rights. Ilhan faced backlash from her Somali community for supporting LGBTQ+ rights. The first Somali-American state legislator, Mohamud Noor openly supported same-sex marriage.

In 2007, SomaliGayCommunity.org was founded to serve the LGBTQI+ Somalis in UK & beyond. It was founded by a Somali gay man Muraad. The website received over 133,000 hits in the first week and regularly receives over 20,000 hits a day. The site contains information from religion to sexual health.

Somali LGBTQ is a community-led advocacy platform for queer Somalis both in diaspora and in Somalia/Somaliland. It was founded by Abdi Maroodi, Marquies Dion (Mali), Ibn Asherah, Karone. Somali LGBTQ working as network & support for Somali LGBTQI+ communities.

[ewan-mo]

Back with the boda-bodas, criss-crossing Kampala

8th—9th March 2023

8th—9th March 2023

Our journey from the east back to the centre was relatively straightforward and only took about 4 ½ hours. On arrival at a familiar hotel, the Duomo, we could get straight to work on the daily tasks of the report for JF, and thinking about the blog and whether we had the energy to write it at that moment!

Clear roads 😃

Thursday 9th

The Kampala traffic is a wonder to behold. How is it, we ask ourselves, that so many vehicles of almost every kind, can drive so close to each other and not crash? Sometimes even coming the wrong way up a dual carriageway. Much of the driving is extraordinarily skilful in its own way.

We criss-crossed the city a few times in search of education, hospitalisation, coordination and accommodation. 

First stop of the day we were with Mathias, head of the Psychiatric Clinical Officer (PCO) Training School. You met our first graduate this week – Amuron – and we have five more coming through the school to graduate in due course. 

This is a strategic education initiative on our part, investing for the future leadership of mental health teams. If you have made a donation to Jamie’s Fund, you are part of this investment, and we thank you. 

Sponsors of these young people are important. Mathias and his colleagues like JF because our treasurer John is meticulous in paying the bills. Not all sponsors and families have been able to do that in these times of economic stringency. There are big debts on the books. 

Our students are doing well. When they move out to the world of clinical work, they will be key leaders in developing mental health services across Uganda. They are likely to stay in-country as PCO is a local qualification, not recognised elsewhere. The PCOs we already work with are a joy, with their enthusiasm and commitment. We think the group coming through are going to be good too. 

Occasionally as we crawl though the city we dip into a mall for a bit of shopping (water, nuts. lunch). On one such foray at the entry checkpoint, the stern looking female security guard approached Ewan and asked “ And, sir, did you cook for your wife last night?” then dissolved into giggles. This week we all celebrated International Women’s Day.

Boda boda drivers waiting for a passenger or five.

Our ‘hospitalisation’ stop was partly my visit to Dr Juliet, Executive Director of Butabika, the big mental hospital which is the key referral  centre for challenging or difficult-to-diagnose patients (adults and children) with mental illness, personality disorder, intellectual disability, and conditions which may have led to trouble with the law.

We had a good chat – she is always very kind to us. It’s important that we in JF keep up with trends and challenges in the mental health scene in Uganda. 

How many jerry cans can you get on the back of a motor bike? 78 I think.

This year there are undoubtedly more attempted and completed suicides, we hear that from all our partners. JF recently sponsored a workshop on the subject of suicide, which was well received by the delegates. 

We are also hearing about a worrying increase in drug abuse using prescribed medicines such as pethidine and tramadol, another strong pain reliever, even in poor rural areas surprisingly. In response to this there are a number of rehabilitation centres springing up around the country. We have no idea about the qualifications and experiences of the proprietors. 

As we parted, I mentioned that I am secretly very fond of the old asylums in UK because I learnt so much from my time there as a young trainee and when I was first a consultant.  Dr Juliet suggested I come back as a volunteer consultant at Butabika and spend a month with them. Oh! That would be interesting….

And Dr Juliet’s final comment as I told her there was snow and ice in UK, was “Well, make sure you have some fun in the sun here!”

Off for some fun in the sun?

Meanwhile Ewan was visiting another, small, hospital, Benedict Medical Centre. Our second graduated PCO is now finding his place there. They are quite near Butabika so many patients go straight to the asylum. The Benedict team are working out how best to serve the mental health needs of a poorer urban sprawl centre population.

The ‘coordination’ aspect of our day was to join Dr Ronald, medical Director of the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau. This body coordinates the work of all the Catholic hospitals in Uganda, providing strategic direction, continuing education (for all staff, not just the clinical people) and representation at national level. We have a high regard for Dr Ronald and his team, and it’s always a pleasure to talk with him. It’s also quite stimulating, too, so talk tends to go on for some time!

JF plans to hold a 4 day Continuing Professional Development workshop for some of our partners in the autumn. The last one, pre- covid in 2019, was very enthusiastically received, some delegates enjoying their first postgraduate training in the ten years after qualifying. They also love getting together.

Where to hold it? Somewhere clean and comfortable with good facilities, appropriate and tasty food, economically priced and near the centre of town. We didn’t get it quite right last time.

Dr Ronald recommended a Catholic centre run by nuns, and duly sent us off to see it. At the ARU, the Association of the Religious in Uganda, we found Sister Lydia and her colleagues who gave us both a characteristically gracious and cheerful welcome and a conducted tour. We think this centre will suit us very well as the price is also very reasonable for such a central location.

We then wove our way back to the hotel through the traffic. It can take a while.

Dr Africa seems to offer a variety of services, with the golf course behind.

[meli-writes]

yes! i might've accidentally enabled/typified this (i've been on tumblr a week i'm soryyy, nothing of mine escaped context on cohost) but i want to express/provide context that mecha is anti-war & anti-colonial genre at its heart and that when the queerness & transness that has become part of it is explored it should be something that intersects with these themes rather than displaces them.

and i do make jokes/vignettes but a lot of my interest that i encourage people to look for is the idea of a 'false liberation.' that the mech can give you more power, but often only to the ends of those who make them (imperialists/war industrialists). and that ideal body presented can just as easily be one of assimilation, not liberation.

i do find an eroticism here, but it's one informed by how trans bodies are unconsentingly sexualised, pressured to acceptable but degraded forms, and how sex is a significant vector of power we are subject to.

this in combination with an interest in cis x trans lesbian dynamics, and how cis queer women can perpetuate and project patriarchy onto trans women, to which a handler x pilot relationship is format to explore that in for me. noting critically that handlers are a niche concept in mech, and an extremely rare, unrepresentative part.

(the intersection with sex is also why my characters are often sex workers of a kind, or subject to conditions that form a parallel experience to sex work. that and sex work is often a naked look at capitalist exploitation, because its lack of legitimacy removes much of the propaganda that justifies labour exploitation.)

would also want to encourage people to look at how western re-interpretations of mechs as war machines often results in a bias towards often erasing the human component that's essential to their design (that enables the scale of war to still retain and centre the human body, and how it suffers) in exchange for the neutral, inhuman machine that we're privileged and sheltered from seeing actually be a war machine, where its lethality is abstracted and its realness subjected only to the people and places we colonise/invade.

there is a distinct whiteness to be aware of both western mech & mecha kink. there is a privilege in ignoring that your praised, idealised body is also one that hurts others. because that's already true for the white trans body, you don't need to be a pilot for that. because in addition to how cis women can harm trans women, i think it's essential to explore how white trans women can harm non-white cis & trans people.

the hound pilot is a victim, but it is still a weapon. is allowed to be one because it is white. you can never fully deconstruct or escape that part of yourself, and instead must learn to live gently with it.

this barely covers my genre thoughts, because it's moreso something i wish to express moreso through the story my kayspace anthology is going to lead into (though it has/will have some elements of it as i get to writing more of it), but ye like the above post is very gorgeous, the tags on @foxgirlchorix's reblog are really worth reading.

i would also want to recommend @witchpassing's on-going series catching strays that i think is a fantastic exploration of a handler x pilot relationship and is unapologetic and unreserved about the awful parts of that. and @abalidoth's replanting that explores a rehabilitative process for a pilot who had a handler with an incredible focus on the internal world of that pilot.

every tumblr post about mecha

post: hey isn't it fucked up to try to achieve the idealized self through war machines that you're forced to pilot

someone whose understanding of the genre is exclusively through 4th wave armored core 6 memes: yeah and it's also sexy as hell and your mech is your perfect body that every woman strives for and you should always obey your handler like a good puppy

[symbiosisschoolofsportssciences]

Exploring Sports Science And Management In India: Unlocking Exciting Career Opportunities

The sports industry in India is growing rapidly, creating a need for skilled professionals who can navigate the complex ecosystem of sports management and science. Combining a passion for sports with business and analytical expertise, this field offers diverse career opportunities. For those looking to make a mark in this dynamic industry, pursuing specialised education is the perfect starting point.

The Rise of Sports Science and Management

The sports sector is no longer limited to athletes and coaches; it encompasses a wide range of disciplines that work together to ensure athletic and organisational success. Sports Science Courses provide students with an understanding of athlete performance, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition. This foundation is essential for anyone aiming to enhance athletic capabilities or work in sports rehabilitation.

On the other hand, Sports Management Degree Programmes in India focus on the operational and financial aspects of sports, including event planning, team management, sponsorships and marketing. These programmes are designed to produce well-rounded professionals capable of handling the challenges of this fast-paced industry.

Why Choose Sports Management and Science?

India's sports industry has seen unprecedented growth, thanks to leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) and Indian Super League (ISL). These platforms have opened up numerous job opportunities in areas such as event management, athlete representation, facility operations and marketing. Specialised education in sports management and science prepares students to excel in these roles.

Symbiosis School of Sports Science (SSSS): A Leader in Sports Education

For aspiring professionals, the Symbiosis School of Sports Science (SSSS) in Pune stands out as a premier institution offering comprehensive programmes in sports management and science. SSSS is renowned for its cutting-edge curriculum, which blends theoretical knowledge with practical exposure. Students benefit from hands-on projects, industry internships and opportunities to work with top organisations in the sports domain.

The programmes at SSSS cover key areas such as sports analytics and legal aspects of sports and athlete management, ensuring students are prepared for the dynamic demands of the industry. The institution also emphasises holistic development, nurturing both professional skills and a deep understanding of the sports ecosystem.

Career Pathways in Sports

Graduates of Sports Science Courses and Sports Management Degree Programmes in India can explore a wide array of career opportunities, such as:

Sports Event Management: Organising and managing local and international tournaments.

Athlete Representation: Handling contracts, endorsements and public relations for athletes.

Sports Marketing and Sponsorships: Developing marketing strategies and securing partnerships.

Facility Management: Overseeing the operations of sports venues and training centres.

The scope of careers in sports is vast and growing, making it an exciting field for young professionals.

Conclusion

With India’s sports industry evolving at a rapid pace, now is the perfect time to consider a career in sports science and management. Institutions like the Symbiosis School of Sports Science (SSSS) are leading the way by equipping students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in this competitive sector.

Whether you're passionate about improving athlete performance or managing large-scale sports events, a specialised degree can turn your passion for sports into a thriving career.

[drsimonthoma]

Navigating Excellence in Orthopedic Care: Why India Is the Worldwide Centre

Rising as a top choice for hip and knee replacement operations, India draws people from all over looking for first-rate orthopaedic treatment. India presents a strong argument for people thinking about joint replacement operations combining cutting-edge medical technology, experienced surgeons, and reasonably priced treatment choices. Along with the advantages of having the best hip replacement in india, this paper investigates the elements that make India a favoured destination.

Modern Medical Infrastructure

India's strong medical system is one of the main factors explaining why it is a worldwide centre for hip and knee replacements. The nation has several multi-specialty hospitals with modern facilities meeting international standards and state-of- the-art technologies. Global healthcare companies accredit several of these facilities, therefore guaranteeing their adherence to strict quality standards.

Contemporary Technology

Among the most recent developments in medical technology used in Indian hospitals are less invasive procedures and robotic-assisted surgery. These developments increase accuracy during operations, therefore facilitating faster recovery periods and better patient outcomes. Modern imaging technologies and surgical instruments guarantee orthopaedic surgeons' capacity to confidently execute difficult operations.

Highly Accomplished Surgeons

Several of the most seasoned orthopaedic surgeons in the world call India home. Many have returned to India with skills and knowledge gained from famous universities outside. Years of expertise and a dedication to ongoing education support their mastery of hip and knee replacements. Patients seeking Indian doctors for their joint replacement need may relax knowing they are in qualified hands.

Whole Care

In Indian hospitals, patient-centered treatment is very emphasised. Hospitals provide thorough pre-operative evaluations, individualised treatment regimens, and large post-operative rehabilitation programs. From consultation to recuperation, our all-encompassing strategy guarantees that patients have the necessary assistance all through their path.

Affordable Treatment Solutions

Choosing hip and knee replacements in India also offers another major benefit: procedures are less expensive than in Western nations. Medical treatments in India are reasonably priced, which attracts local as well as foreign patients.

Reduced Surgical Costs

Hip and knee replacement procedures in India have much less cost than those in nations like the United States or the United Kingdom. In India, a complete knee replacement may run anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000; in Western countries, comparable operations may cost about $40,000. This clear difference lets patients get world-class treatment free from financial burden.

Many hospitals provide all-inclusive packages covering many facets of therapy, including surgery, hospital stay, drugs, and rehabilitation programs. These open pricing policies enable consumers to properly budget free from hidden fees or surprises.

Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies are starting to see abroad treatments as reasonable choices as medical tourism picks steam in India. Choosing surgery in India might cause patients to discover that their insurance plans pay some of their charges, therefore lowering their out-of-pocket spending.

Rising Joint Replacement Surgeons Demand

Growing demand for hip and knee replacement operations in India results from the increased frequency of joint-related problems like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. More people are looking for workable answers to restore mobility and improve their quality of life as life expectancy grows and lifestyles change.

Growing Population: Ageing 

Given the ageing of a sizable fraction of India's population, orthopaedic surgery is projected to be in more demand. Conditions impacting joints grow more widespread when individuals approach their older years, which drives higher demand for surgical treatments.

Lifestyle Characteristics

Additionally contributing causes to joint issues in younger generations are obesity rates and inactive lifestyles. Growing knowledge of joint health has driven people to seek surgery possibilities earlier rather than later.

Success Rates

With research showing around 90% success rates for knee replacements, India boasts an amazing success record for joint replacement operations. Excellent treatment paired with experienced surgeons helps to provide these positive results, therefore comforting patients thinking about surgery.

Indian Hip Replacement Surgery: Advantages

Deciding to get hip replacement surgery in India has several advantages outside of financial ones.

More Mobility

Restoring mobility is one of hip replacement surgery's most important benefits. Following surgery, patients generally find relief from persistent pain related to diseases like arthritis or injuries, enabling them to more easily resume their normal activities.

Improved Standard of Life

Correcting joint problems surgically will help to significantly improve general quality of life. Following successful hip replacements, patients report higher emotional well-being, improved sleep quality, and more vitality.

Quick Healing

Many patients recover quicker than with conventional approaches because to developments in surgical procedures and rehabilitation practices. Less tissue damage, less discomfort after surgery, and faster recoveries to regular activities are frequently the outcomes of minimally invasive techniques.

Programs for Complete Rehabilitation

Successful results after hip replacement surgery depend much on post-operative rehabilitation. Indian hospitals provide customised rehabilitation courses including physical therapy sessions meant to increase flexibility and strengthen muscles surrounding a joint.

Availability of Original Treatments

Patients choosing surgery in India gain from access to cutting-edge procedures such new implant technologies improving surgical accuracy and patient outcomes or robotic-assisted operations.

Medical Tourism Emphasises

The increase of medical tourism greatly supports India's growing image as a hip and knee replacement destination. Because of its mix of excellent treatment and reasonably prices, patients from all across the world are selecting India more and more for their orthopaedic operations.

Simplified Services for Foreign Visitors

Many Indian hospitals include divisions specifically for foreign patients that provide services related to travel, lodging, and post-operative care. These services usually include help with visa applications, airport transportation, and local housing reservations, so streamlining and relieving of stress the whole procedure is.

Global Appreciation

The consistency of Indian healthcare facilities with global norms of treatment is becoming well known. Global organisations certify many hospitals, therefore guaranteeing that patients get care more like what they would find in Western nations.

Conclusion

India's strong medical infrastructure, best knee replacement surgeon, reasonably priced treatment choices, and rising demand for orthopaedic surgery help to explain its worldwide centre for hip and knee replacements. India's dedication to perfection gives patients looking for top-notch joint replacement operations comfort; furthermore, the country offers significant savings over procedures obtained abroad.

India stands out as a perfect location for those wishing to restore mobility and enhance their quality of life by hip or knee replacement operations because of its remarkable success rates and complete care given throughout the surgical journey—from consultation to rehabilitation. India's standing as a pioneer in orthopaedic treatment will only keep rising on the international scene as more people understand these advantages.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] The state-of-the-art 150-acre centre will serve as a beacon for integrative health through Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, Naturopathy, and more The centre will offer world-class treatments, from cancer rehabilitation to autoimmune disease care, leveraging nature and integrative practices for holistic recovery   SOUKYA, India’s first NABH-accredited AYUSH hospital and the visionary creation of renowned holistic health specialist Dr. Isaac Mathai, is set to embark on its first global expansion since its inception in 2002. Addressing the growing global demand for integrative medicine, SOUKYA will establish its first international unit in Portugal with an investment of INR 220 Cr. The state-of-the-art residential medical institute, expected to be operational by late 2027, will offer its unique treatment approach combining traditional, time-tested natural systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, Naturopathy, and other complementary therapies for treating various chronic and lifestyle conditions.   Dr. Issac Mathai and Dr. Suja Issac   Spread across 150 acres, the SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre in Portugal will redefine holistic wellness with 40 exquisitely designed rooms, villas and suites along with a dedicated yoga hall creating a sanctuary where mind, body, and spirit harmoniously align. The centre will feature its own herb and vegetable garden, ensuring the freshest and most potent ingredients for treatments and meals. Designed by Dr. Suja Issac, Co-Founder and Executive Director of SOUKYA the architecture and landscape blends Portuguese and Indian influences. Located just 45 minutes from the Lisbon airport, the centre will be easily accessible for patients across Europe. Equipped to address a wide spectrum of rare and chronic illnesses, including cancer rehabilitation, addiction, lifestyle and metabolic disorders, paediatric developmental challenges, mental health conditions, reproductive and gastrointestinal disorders, and autoimmune diseases, the centre builds on SOUKYA's proven success in treating advanced conditions such as liver cirrhosis, dermatitis, lupus nephritis, lung fibrosis, multiple sclerosis,  Crohn’s disease amongst others. This holistic approach promises transformative healing in a serene, nature-immersed environment.   Speaking about the launch, Dr. Isaac Mathai, Founder Chairman & Medical Director, SOUKYA International Holistic Health Center, said, “Over the years, SOUKYA has become synonymous with being the world’s premier integrative health destination, trusted by global dignitaries, industrialists, celebrities, and leaders. As awareness of preventive and integrative healthcare continues to grow, we felt this was the ideal time to establish our first health destination outside India, catering to our American and European clientele. Portugal emerged as the perfect choice, given the government’s commitment to prioritizing health and wellness. This new centre will be an ultra-premium destination, offering world-class treatments for both chronic and lifestyle conditions. With this stepping stone, our vision is to see SOUKYA expand across the globe, sharing India’s rich healthcare heritage with the world over the next 25–30 years.”   India's AYUSH sector has experienced substantial growth in recent years. As reported by IBEF, the AYUSH services sector is estimated to be valued at $26 billion by 2024, bringing the total industry valuation to over $50 billion. Additionally, the manufacturing segment of the AYUSH industry grew significantly, reaching $18 billion in 2020 and is projected to hit $24 billion by 2024.   “With the growing awareness of integrative medicine, we aim to strategically position SOUKYA in India to cater to high-net-worth individuals within the domestic market and across select Asian countries. Our Portugal centre will serve a significant portion of our existing patient base while also attracting new clientele,” added Dr. Isaac Mathai.

  With growing awareness of AYUSH treatment methodology, health and wellness tourism in India is experiencing a remarkable growth, emerging as a major draw for both domestic and international travellers seeking holistic treatment and well-being. According to industry reports, the market potential for wellness tourism in India is substantial and projected to reach $26.55 billion by 2029, highlighting a strong upward trajectory. Launch of SOUKYA in Portugal is just a stepping-stone to take holistic healthcare ideology to many more patients. At SOUKYA, healing transcends mere treatment—it is a transformative journey toward enduring health, vitality, and balance.   About SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre Tucked away on 30 acres of lush, organic farmland on the outskirts of Bengaluru, SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre is not just a destination; it is a specialized institution that treats a wide range of chronic, complex, and life-altering conditions. SOUKYA, India's first NABH-accredited AYUSH hospital for Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, and Naturopathy, combines’ world-class care with traditional healing practices. The centre operates under the expert guidance of its Founders, Dr. Suja Issac and Dr. Issac Mathai, globally respected holistic physicians. Dr. Mathai has been instrumental in shaping SOUKYA as a place where personalized, holistic healthcare leads to long-term, sustainable results. The name "SOUKYA," derived from the Sanskrit word Soukhyam, translates to "well-being," symbolizing the centre’s commitment to achieving harmony within oneself and with the environment. The centre adopts a multidisciplinary approach combining Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga & Naturopathy, and over 30 Complementary Therapies like Reflexology, Acupressure, Acupuncture and Dietetics, all under one roof offering a well-rounded solution for conditions that conventional medicine alone may struggle to manage. Having successfully treated over 10,000 patients from 100+ countries, SOUKYA has become a global beacon of holistic health, attracting dignitaries, industrialists, celebrities, and global leaders seeking transformative healing.  !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link