Pfau’s humanity

Dr Ruth Pfau left her homeland to help patients suffering from leprosy in Pakistan – a country so different from her own – and stayed here till her last breath. Pfau, along with Abdul Sattar Edhi, is among many notable humanitarians known for their compassionate work. Although these people have left an indelible mark on the new generation of Pakistan, it is sad that after a lapse of two to three years they become a distant memory. Why do we only mention their honourable actions and not strive to follow in their footsteps? Why haven’t we, like them, extended our services and contributed to society? Why haven’t we even tried?

Our nation is known around the globe for its hospitality. Foreigners such as stand up comedian Jeremy McLellan and Swiss doctor Eileen Benz are of a few people who have expressed their enjoyable stay in Pakistan. Still we are not going beyond that. There is only one message for young people in Pakistan: Become the next Abdul Sattar Edhi or the next Dr Ruth Pfau and work as they worked for our nation.

Museera Irshad Khan (Mardan)