Appreciations
View(s):Tribute to a legendary surgeon of Mother Lanka
Dr. Noel Bartholomeusz
The 48th death anniversary of Dr. Noel Bartholomeusz fell on November 25, hence these words of appreciation dedicated to him.
Dr. Bartholomeusz was a renowned surgeon whose great skill saved many patients at a time when surgical treatment was somewhat primitive in the country. Every human being is honoured and appreciated for what he/she does during their lifetime, however, in the case of Dr. Bartholomeusz he went way beyond just the call of duty.
Being faithful to the fraternity of surgeons to which he belonged during his lifetime was one thing, but to facilitate and contribute immensely to the upliftment and success of that fraternity even after his demise is beyond compare. This is what Dr. Bartholomeusz has done.
The magnitude of the generous donation of the charming home in Cinnamon Gardens where Dr. Bartholomeusz and his beloved wife Nora lived, to the College of Surgeons of Sri Lanka is incredible……and it was not just the house but the whole of the property, almost half-acre in the heart of prime Colombo 7 including his much loved ‘Orchid Garden’.
This has been the headquarters of the College of Surgeons for the last 22 years and the invaluable anchor from which there has been expansion and strengthening of all activity. An act of great philanthropy which has created wider and wider ripples and borne immense fruit.
There have been many such acts in the past, regrettably though over time such inheritances have been taken for granted and not maintained or developed.
The tale is different with the Noel and Nora Bartholomeusz Foundation which now houses not only the Office of the College of Surgeons but also an auditorium, a skills laboratory, classrooms and a museum, all easily accessible with adequate parking space.
All these additions and developments to what was once a cozy home, have paved the way for continued medical education, skills development and upgrading of surgical care services provided by a widespread family of surgeons in the country, most importantly benefiting thousands of patients.
The College of Surgeons being the apex body of all sub-specialities of surgery currently practised in Sri Lanka, has facilitated this process to its credit. Here is the hub for over 100 training programmes for surgeons-in-training and other medical personnel annually.
The distinguished surgeons who have carried the torch as the ‘Presidents’ of the college and their respective ‘Councils’ have to be congratulated and lauded for their efforts in keeping the premises shipshape, retaining its old world charm.
It is with a deep sense of gratitude that Dr. Noel and Mrs. Nora Bartholomeusz are remembered by every member of the college. Even while each and every surgeon who walks in and out of the arched entrance of this august building has this benevolent couple on their minds, it is in April and November that everyone bows in appreciation.
On April 13, the death anniversary of Mrs. Bartholomeusz, a brief Service of Thanksgiving is carried out at the couple’s gravesite at the General Cemetery, Kanatte, while Dr. Bartholomeusz’s death anniversary is commemorated in November with the ‘Memorial Oration’ at the very premises which was his home.
Dr. Noel and Mrs. Bartholomeusz will be remembered as long as surgery is practised in this country.
‘May their souls rest in peace and rise in glory and may the light perpetual shine upon them.’
Dr. Malik De Soysa
Secretary
The College of Surgeons
of Sri Lanka
He led not through words but meaningful action
Joe Nanayakkara
Three months have passed since we bid farewell to Joe Nanayakkara, a cherished husband, devoted father and compassionate human being whose service to society remains unforgettable. Joe, Joe Uncle, Joe Ayya, or Joe Aththa, as he was affectionately known, lived a life that embodied humility, leadership and unwavering commitment to others.
Born into a family of educators, Joe was the eldest of nine children and the father of two successful sons and a daughter. His professional journey was spent in service to prestigious schools in Kandy, while his voluntary efforts in the Hantana and Gangawata Korale areas became a benchmark for community leadership. The vast numbers who came to pay their respects at his funeral reflected the deep admiration and gratitude he inspired.
Joe led not through words but through meaningful action. Though honoured for his social services, he never allowed these accolades to become symbols of ego or display.
As we mark the third month of his passing, we remember a life that enriched our own, a life defined by generosity, sincerity, and enduring love for humanity.
May he find eternal peace!
Chami Arambawela
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