Empathy is often perceived as a soft emotion, but when we look at the journey of Dr. Abdul Bari Khan, President of Indus Hospital and Health Network, we realize that it has been the strong driving force behind contentment throughout his life. During the CEO Talk being recently presented at the Mini Auditorium, Iqra University, Dr. Bari shared anecdotes and experiences from his personal and professional life, demonstrating how empathy and compassion can lead to not only personal satisfaction but also societal transformation. His story reflects the power of giving back, driven by the values of altruism and service.
The Foundation of Compassion
Dr. Bari’s journey begins with his family, whom he credits for instilling in him the values of empathy, compassion, and selflessness.
“Whatever position we have reached in life, it’s due to our parents and spiritual parents’ efforts, so we should respect them,” he emphasized.
Growing up in a family known for their piety and generosity, Dr. Bari absorbed these values, which later shaped his professional endeavors. The early teachings from his family paved the way for a life of service, making empathy not just a feeling but a principle to live by.
The Early Days
In 1979, Dr. Bari enrolled in Dow Medical College, where his commitment to public service deepened. By 1982, he had already made a mark by co-founding the first voluntary blood bank with fellow students, under the Patients’ Welfare Association (PWA). This was just the beginning of a lifelong dedication to serving the underprivileged. Dr. Bari reflected on this notable time, stating,
“To me, it has never been about designations and money. Since my childhood, I’ve been taught to care for people, and so I did.”
A Turning Point: The 1986 Karachi Bomb Blast
With the bomb blast of 1986 in Karachi, there came a turning point in Dr. Bari’s life. Looking at the suffering of those in need of urgent medical care, Dr. Bari realized that there was a dire need of affordable healthcare in the region and that a practical measure had to be taken.
“During the blast, I saw first-hand the miseries of people needing urgent medical care. Instead of feeling powerless, I worked with like-minded friends and colleagues and decided to take a practical step.”
It was during this time that Dr. Bari’s dream of establishing a model hospital took root—a hospital where patients wouldn’t be burdened with financial woes.
The Birth of Indus Hospital
Dr. Bari’s vision of a hospital that catered to the underprivileged without charging fees became a reality in 2007 with the opening of The Indus Hospital. The dream that began in 1987 had materialized into a state-of-the-art healthcare facility, serving those who couldn’t afford high medical costs. Reflecting on the support received from the Pakistani people, Dr. Bari remarked,
“In times of crisis, no nation reacts better than Pakistan. The way they come together during hardship is incredible. I wish we behaved in a similar manner in our daily life.”
Empathy as a Guiding Principle – A Piece of Advice
Dr. Bari concluded his session on a motivating note for the students, saying:
“Respect your parents and teachers, and dream big. You have unlimited resources and time. If your direction is right, nothing can stop you.”
No wonder, Dr. Abdul Bari Khan’s journey from a young medical student at Dow Medical College to the founder of one of Pakistan’s leading hospitals is a remarkable example of how empathy can drive a significant change. His life and career have been shaped by a deep sense of responsibility to serve others, a principle he inherited from his family and instilled in every project he has led. For him, ‘Empathy Truly Brings Contentment,’ and through his work, he has shown that the most fulfilling path is the one where we help others along the way.
