Her Majesty Gyalyum Kesang Choeden Wangchuck graced the opening of ‘The Gyalyum KCW Surgical Intensive Care Unit’ at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu yesterday.

The ceremony, attended by royal family members, the health minister, and dignitaries, was presided over by Tsugla Lopen.

Work on the Surgical ICU, which began in May 2023 following a royal command, was completed by November.

The project involved training nurses, procuring equipment, and refurbishing the facility. The aim of the care unit is to provide specialised care for critically ill surgical patients.

This new unit addresses the current overcrowding in the adult ICU, which serves both medical and surgical cases. By focusing on surgical cases, it will improve patient care and safety, reduce the risk of cross-infection, and decrease waiting times for critical care patients.

The Unit’s first phase will start with six beds, with plans to expand to four surgical sub-specialty ICUs and a six + one High Dependency Unit.

This expansion represents significant progress in Bhutan’s healthcare system. The project symbolises rapid healthcare innovation and improved access to high-quality services without delays.

Described as a collaborative effort, the Unit creates a ‘sanctuary of healing’ for post-operative surgical care patients and stands as a ‘beacon of strength, compassion, and hope.’

Her Majesty’s generous donation of Nu 11.12 million in May made this significant milestone possible.

Her Majesty made the donation in loving memory of her mother, Mayum Choni Wongmo, who was renowned for her tireless social work and her passionate dedication to nursing the sick, especially those suffering from leprosy.

Trained by Dr. Albert Craig, Mayum established a clinic in the Namgyeling Palace where she found joy in treating the farmers. Mayum’s dream was to work in Trashigang and she often said, ‘Nothing would make her happier than living in Trashigang and treating leprosy patients.’

In Kalimpong, where Mayum spent most of her life, she used to go to the hospital every day, volunteering at both Charteris Hospital and Leprosy Hospital in addition to being its biggest patron. Those familiar with her work described Mayum as the lifeline of Charteris Hospital, comparing her to its heart.

Her Majesty Gyalyum Kesang Choeden Wangchuck inherited her mother’s deep interest in medical care and has continued this legacy by supporting various health sector initiatives. These include eye care and HPV vaccination programs, which have become models for international public health programs beyond Bhutan.

The establishment of the country’s first Surgical Intensive Care Unit at the JDWNRH, named after Her Majesty Gyalyum Kesang Choeden Wangchuck, stands as a testament to the royal family’s enduring commitment to enhancing healthcare for the Bhutanese people.