Kyiek Mukhim the one who brought hope to the hills
A tribute to Kyiek Mukhim, an 80-year-old nurse and midwife from Meghalaya’s Kharang village, who passed away after a remarkable 62-year career, assisting in over 1,000 childbirths in remote areas with limited healthcare access.
Every morning, as I pour over The Shillong Times, I am whisked back to the lush green hills of my childhood, a far cry from the concrete maze of the City of Joy. Today, a particularly moving story caught my eye—one that simply begs to be shared with the world. It is the story of Kyiek Mukhim, an extraordinary woman whose remarkable 62-year career as a nurse-cum-midwife touched countless lives in the remote village of Kharang, nestled in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district.
Kyiek Mukhim, who passed away on Monday at the age of 80, was much more than a midwife; she was a beacon of hope for her community. For decades, she facilitated the safe delivery of over 1,000 babies, a feat that not only speaks to her dedication but also to the resilience of those in Meghalaya’s more remote corners. In a village where the nearest hospital lies a daunting 40 kilometres away, Mukhim became the lifeline for expectant mothers, ensuring safe childbirth even in the most difficult circumstances.
What strikes me most about Kyiek Mukhim’s legacy is the sheer endurance of her service. For over six decades, this incredible woman worked tirelessly to assist mothers through one of life’s most vulnerable moments. As one of the few healthcare providers in the area, her role went far beyond that of a mere midwife. She was a confidante, a healer, and a guiding light in times of uncertainty. The fact that she continued to serve her community until the ripe age of 80, only retiring due to health issues, speaks volumes about her dedication.
Kyiek Mukhim’s passing marks the end of an era for the people of Kharang, and her contributions have not gone unnoticed. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma took to social media to express his condolences and pay tribute to her exemplary life. “Today we lost Kong Kyiek Mukhim, 88, a nurse and midwife who assisted over 1,000 childbirths in remote Kharang village in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district. She served the people at a time when healthcare institutions were 40 km away. Exemplary life!” his message read.
What a fitting tribute for a woman whose life’s work was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s easy, living in bustling cities, to forget the sheer tenacity required to deliver healthcare in such remote areas. But Kyiek Mukhim’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the quiet heroes who work behind the scenes, often without recognition, to uplift their communities.
As I sit here, far removed from the rolling hills of Meghalaya, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for individuals like Kyiek Mukhim. Her legacy is a testament to the power of dedication, compassion, and community. She leaves behind not just a village full of grateful families but also an indelible mark on the heart of Meghalaya.
May her soul rest in peace, knowing that her life’s work has made a lasting difference. And as the people of Kharang and beyond mourn her loss, may her story inspire many more to serve their communities with the same selflessness and grace.
For those of us reading this story from the comfort of our homes, perhaps it’s a timely reminder that, much like the resilient hills of Meghalaya, the strength of a community lies in its unsung heroes. Kyiek Mukhim was undoubtedly one of them.
To read the article in Shillong Times click HERE.
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