In the quiet hours past midnight, when most of the city slept, the lights inside the operation theatre at Apex Superspeciality Hospital remained bright and focused. It was International Women’s Day, and a remarkable story of dedication, teamwork, and womanhood was unfolding.
Late that night, a patient—an ICU nurse herself—arrived at the hospital requiring urgent obstetric care. One phone call was enough to mobilise the medical team. Within minutes, the usually silent hospital corridors saw determined movement as doctors and nurses prepared for the emergency procedure.
An All-Women Surgical Team Steps Forward
What made the moment especially meaningful was the team behind the surgery. The entire operating team consisted of women, including the anesthetist, pediatrician, assistant surgeon, and OT nurses, led by obstetrician surgeon Hemakshi Mehta.
Despite the late hour, the staff responded immediately. Some of the nurses travelled long distances from suburbs such as Vasai and Virar, leaving their homes in the middle of the night to reach the hospital.
Each member of the team balanced multiple roles in life—as mothers, wives, and daughters—yet that night, their commitment to patient care came first.
Precision, Teamwork, and Compassion in the OT
Soon after the team assembled, the operation theatre was fully prepared. Under the leadership of Hemakshi Mehta, the doctors and nurses worked with remarkable precision and coordination.
Meanwhile, anesthetist Varsha Vora ensured the mother’s safety and comfort throughout the procedure. At the same time, pediatrician Sunila Nagvekar stood ready to receive the newborn. The OT nursing staff efficiently handled instruments, monitoring, and surgical support.
Their collective effort ensured that the procedure progressed smoothly and safely.
The Joyful Cry of New Life
Soon, the cry of a healthy baby girl filled the operation theatre. In that moment, the tension and exhaustion of the late-night procedure gave way to smiles, relief, and quiet pride.
The team had successfully delivered a baby while ensuring the safety of both mother and child. More importantly, they had demonstrated the spirit of teamwork and dedication that defines healthcare professionals.
A Quiet Celebration of Women’s Day
There were no speeches or formal celebrations that night. Instead, the women in the operation theatre shared a brief yet meaningful moment of acknowledgement. Through smiles and mutual respect, they recognised that their work itself had become a powerful celebration of International Women’s Day.
A Reflection on Women in Healthcare
Reflecting on the moment, Hemakshi Mehta emphasised the unique challenges and responsibilities women in healthcare often manage.
She noted that women frequently juggle multiple roles—as professionals, caregivers, mothers, and partners. However, when a patient requires urgent care, they unite as a team and respond without hesitation. According to her, that night every woman in the operation theatre demonstrated that dedication and compassion know no time.
A Story of Quiet Strength
Ultimately, the midnight surgery represented more than a successful delivery. It highlighted the quiet strength and resilience of women who step forward when their patients need them the most.
Leaving behind their homes, sleep, and sometimes even their families, these healthcare professionals dedicate themselves to caring for others.
Thus, on that International Women’s Day, inside a brightly lit operation theatre at Apex Superspeciality Hospital, a team of women did more than celebrate womanhood—they embodied it.