Bengal HAM Radio Enthusiasts Reunite 75-Year-Old Alzheimer's Patient with Family After a Decade
In a heartwarming turn of events, a 75-year-old man from Bihar, who had been missing for over ten years after developing Alzheimer's disease, was successfully reunited with his family on Saturday afternoon in Kolkata. The reunion was made possible through the swift efforts of Bengal HAM radio enthusiasts and local police, showcasing the power of community collaboration in addressing critical social issues.
Discovery and Initial Rescue
The elderly man, identified as Mohammad Mustafa, a resident of Purnia in Bihar, was found wandering on the streets of Bongaon in North 24 Parganas district. Locals noticed his disoriented state and immediately informed the police, who stepped in to ensure his safety and arranged for necessary medical treatment. A senior officer from the Bongaon District police stated, "Locals found the man wandering on the streets of Bongaon. Police were informed and they ensured his safety and arranged for his medical treatment." This initial intervention was crucial in stabilizing Mustafa's condition and setting the stage for further action.
Role of HAM Radio Volunteers
Sub-inspector Bikash Chandra Sardar, recognizing the need for broader assistance, reached out to HAM radio volunteers for help. He contacted Ambarish Nag Biswas, the secretary of the West Bengal Radio Club, who played a pivotal role in the identification process. "A photograph of the man was circulated. Within hours, his family was traced in Bihar," Nag Biswas explained. The rapid dissemination of Mustafa's photo among amateur radio operators across regions led to a quick breakthrough, highlighting the efficiency and reach of HAM radio networks in emergency situations.
Family's Emotional Journey
Mustafa's son, Nihal Ansari, shared the family's long and arduous search over the past decade. "We started his treatment after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. But one day, he suddenly went missing. We searched extensively for years, lodged missing diaries at several police stations, and reviewed CCTV footage. We saw him boarding a bus and learned that he got down at Dankuni. Despite looking for him there, we could not find him. Over time we had almost given up and thought that we would never see him again," Ansari recounted. The family's persistence, coupled with the unexpected assistance from HAM radio operators, culminated in a tearful reunion at the Bongaon police station on Saturday.
Gratitude and Broader Implications
Expressing immense gratitude, Ansari added, "We are extremely grateful to the police and the HAM operators. Getting him back feels like a miracle." This incident not only underscores the critical role of technology and community networks in locating missing persons but also raises awareness about Alzheimer's disease and the challenges faced by families dealing with such conditions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of timely intervention and collaborative efforts in public safety and healthcare.
The successful reunion of Mohammad Mustafa with his family after more than ten years stands as a testament to human resilience and the impactful synergy between law enforcement and volunteer groups. As communities continue to grapple with issues related to aging and cognitive disorders, stories like this offer hope and inspiration for more proactive measures in the future.
