Calcutta Sanitarium by H. C. MENKEL, M. D.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 16, 1908

Calcutta Sanitarium

By H. C. MENKEL, M. D.

It is now one year since we landed in India—a year filled with varied experiences. We realize more than ever before that a Christian ought never to be discouraged at whatever may come, for we now see that things which at first we could not understand, were directed by a wiser mind, for our good in the end.

Since the sanitarium work has been established in Calcutta, it has been carried on under most trying circumstances, there being but few institutions operating under like conditions. In the European quarter where the sanitarium is located, the rents and other expenses are exorbitant, and this made it necessary either to charge a high rate for our work, or to operate at a loss.

Calcutta has a number of large government hospitals where people may receive good medical attention and care free, or at a very nominal charge.

The climate of Calcutta is very trying, and the institution has been short of workers, which meant that those here must overwork under these trying climatic conditions. This is the reason so many of our faithful nurses have broken down in health.

During the hot season, lasting for about seven months, every one who can leave Calcutta goes to the hills; thus a greater portion of the year our patronage is low. After we became better acquainted with the conditions and needs of this field, and studied carefully the instruction regarding locating our sanitariums, the conviction became strong that this institution should be located in a more favorable place.

As this matter was considered by the advisory board it was clear that God's hand was leading, for all had received definite impressions along this same line.

The Lord in a marked manner cleared up difficulties which seemed at first impossible to overcome.

After a careful study of the field, it was decided to locate the sanitarium in Mussoorie, the same station where our Mountain Mission Home is located. Mussoorie is an ideal location for a sanitarium. It is a beautiful little city, at an elevation of seven thousand feet, in the bosom of the Himalaya Mountains amid the most delightful mountain scenery, with a climate equal to Colorado. The cool, fresh air from the snow-capped mountains beyond does wonders for those who visit this place yearly to overcome the evil effects of the plains.

Adding to these natural advantages the sanitarium principles and methods, it would seem that here nature and science can meet under the most favorable conditions for the restoration of health. And here our medical workers will not be subjected to the debilitating climatic conditions while carrying on their taxing work.

We are now in the midst of packing and moving. By April 1, when the season in the hills opens, we shall be ready to receive our patients at the Mussoorie Sanitarium.

As the great burden which has hindered the advancement of this work is lifted, we confidently expect to see the medical work become the power in this field which it was meant to be, breaking down prejudice and preparing hearts to receive the truth either now or during the loud cry.

From all indications India will have some interesting reports to send in during the coming year. We hear the sound of a going, and you know what that means.

Keep a watch on India, and your hearts will rejoice in what the Lord is able to do.

H. C. MENKEL, M. D.