During my time in Pakistan, I met very important people who truly touched my life, and one of them is George Taj from Lahore. I worked with him for ten years in the parish where he is a catechist. During that time, he also started working in the medical field, taking patients to the hospital.
That project has been ongoing for the last seventeen years. My inspiration from him comes from seeing his dedication and commitment to patients. One example was just recently, when a patient with a fractured spine required a major operation. George was instrumental in ensuring he was seen by the orthopedic surgeon, and the operation went well. He was also involved in making sure two units of blood were provided. Seeing this successful operation, which restored the patient’s life and the ability to work again, hopefully within a month or two, to support his family, was truly inspiring.
This entire medical project has given new life to many people, up to 500 patients seen annually, and about 20 to 30 operations per year. It originates from faith and compassion, with George going out of his way to ensure patients receive good care. What makes it remarkable is the deep respect and collaboration among healthcare professionals of different faiths. George is Christian, most doctors are Muslim, and many nurses are Christian, creating a place of mutual respect where Christians and Muslims work together for the common good—patient healing and care. I find this especially inspiring because it’s built on respect and admiration for each other, enabling us to bring healing to countless patients over the years.
My friendship with George has been one of the highlights of my time in Pakistan. Even though I’m no longer in Lahore, now living in Hyderabad in Sindh province, I visit Lahore about three times a year and stay with his family. That friendship and shared dedication to this work have produced incredible results for many people. I am grateful to have met him, known him, and shared his life. It’s truly a blessing for me, and I believe it’s a blessing for him as well. Together, our efforts have led to numerous successful surgeries and helped people regain their health through his care and commitment.
Columban Fr. Liam O’Callaghan lives and works in Pakistan.
