The True Meaning of Medicine

During my internship at Diyatalawa, I had a profound encounter with a kind and compassionate pediatrician named Dr. Senaka Gunatilleke. This experienced consultant took a genuine interest in my future aspirations and asked me a simple yet profound question: "Why do you want to pursue medicine as a career?"

Initially, my answer was straightforward: I enjoyed science and was curious about the human body. However, as I delved deeper, my motivations became less clear. While I found satisfaction in helping others and alleviating suffering, I realized that my initial reasons for choosing medicine were perhaps more superficial.

The consultant then shared a story about a group of aspiring post graduate trainees he had once asked the same question. Their responses were varied: some sought prestige, others were driven by parental expectations and peer pressure, better finances, and a comfortable lifestyle. He noted that almost no one expressed a desire to become a consultant solely to provide better care for their patients.

This anecdote sparked a significant reflection within me. Was I pursuing my medical career for the right reasons? Was I truly dedicated to serving humanity, or was I driven by personal ambitions and societal pressures?

I realized that the pursuit of knowledge and expertise is meaningless if it doesn't translate into tangible benefits for others. Degrees and titles hold little value if they are not used to alleviate suffering and improve the lives of others.

As I continue my journey in medicine, I am committed to upholding the noble principles of the profession. I aspire to be a doctor who not only possesses clinical knowledge but also possesses a compassionate heart and a genuine desire to serve humanity.

‘There are those who seek knowledge for the sake of knowledge; that is Curiosity.

There are those who seek knowledge to be known by others; that is Vanity.

There are those who seek knowledge in order to serve; that is Love.’

- Bernard of Clairvaux

Eternal Quest

We live our lives caught in a relentless cycle: we eat, we sleep, we work, we study. We chase degrees, accumulate wealth, and yearn for recognition. Yet, despite our tireless efforts, we often find ourselves questioning the very purpose of our existence.

Why do we strive so hard? What truly matters in the grand scheme of things? We come into this world empty-handed and leave it the same way. So, why do we bother with the fleeting pursuits of material wealth and social status?

The answer, perhaps, lies in seeking something more enduring. Something that transcends the limitations of time and space. Something eternal.

Are we living up to our full potential? Are we doing what we were meant to do? Are we finding joy in our daily lives? These are the questions that truly matter. It's not about the quantity of our possessions or the height of our social standing. It's about the quality of our experiences and the depth of our connections with others.

Let us not be consumed by the ephemeral. Instead, let us focus on what truly matters: our relationships, our faith, and our contribution to the world. By living a life of purpose and meaning, we can leave a lasting legacy that extends beyond our mortal existence.

Conquering Your Inner Demons

Have you ever felt trapped by a weakness, a fear, or an addiction? A prisoner to your own limitations? You're not alone. We all have our shadows, those dark corners of our souls that can hold us captive. But what if I told you that there's a path to freedom, a path to healing?

The Bible, in the ancient story of the Israelites, offers a profound metaphor. When they were bitten by venomous snakes, they were healed by looking at a bronze serpent raised on a pole. This act of faith, of turning towards a symbol of divine power, was their salvation. Similarly, when we turn to God, our ultimate source of strength and healing, we can find the power to overcome our own challenges.

The Lord said to Moses, “Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live.” So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived. (Numbers 21:8-9)

Conquering your inner demons 

The first step on this journey is acceptance. Acknowledging our weaknesses, embracing our vulnerabilities, is not a sign of weakness but a testament to our courage. By facing our shadows, we empower ourselves to seek the help and support we need.

This journey can be arduous, and it's often easier to walk it with others. Surrounding ourselves with positive, uplifting people can provide the encouragement and strength we need to persevere. Remember, you don't have to face your challenges alone.

As we navigate the twists and turns of life, it's crucial to prioritize self-care. Nourishing our bodies with healthy food, our minds with positive thoughts, and our spirits with prayer and meditation can rejuvenate our souls. Trust in God's timing and be patient. Healing takes time, and every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory.

By combining faith, perseverance, and practical steps, we can emerge from life's shadows, stronger, wiser, and more deeply connected to God.

Lost in the Noise? Find Your Way Back

Life can be overwhelming, filled with constant change and relentless demands. We juggle professional success, financial pressures, academic qualifications, and social commitments. Our schedules are packed with meetings, parties, and countless other obligations. In the midst of this whirlwind, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters.

We risk losing ourselves, our souls, in the pursuit of worldly gains. But what is the point of achieving everything the world has to offer if we sacrifice our inner peace and spiritual well-being? As the saying goes, "What good is it to gain the whole world, yet forfeit your soul?" (Matthew 16:26) 

Imagine if today were your last day on Earth. Would your accomplishments and material possessions truly matter? Or would you yearn for the simple joys of life, the love of family and friends, and a deep connection with something greater than yourself?

Consider the lilies of the field. They do not toil or spin, yet they are clothed in beauty. God cares for them, and how much more will He care for you? (Matthew 6:28-33) 

If you feel stressed, burdened, or burnt out, remember this: God invites you to come to Him and find rest. (Matthew 11:28) 

A Hidden Truth

The patient, a 45-year-old man, was admitted to the hospital with a week-long cough and shortness of breath. Initially diagnosed with an acute asthma exacerbation, his condition persisted, and he grew increasingly agitated, demanding discharge.

Intrigued by his unusual presentation and his wife's visible distress, I delved deeper. His physical examination was unremarkable, with normal oxygen saturation, yet his rapid breathing and anxious demeanor hinted at an underlying issue. 

A private conversation with his wife revealed a disturbing secret: years of avoiding intimacy and suspicious text messages led her to suspect a hidden sexual orientation. This revelation, coupled with his unexplained symptoms, sparked a new line of inquiry: HIV infection.

I advised the patient to remain hospitalized for further investigation, and he reluctantly agreed. The consultant's examination yielded a shocking discovery: Kaposi sarcoma lesions in his mouth, a hallmark sign of HIV infection. He was promptly transferred to a specialized hospital.

A month later, his wife returned with heartbreaking news: the patient had succumbed to pneumonia, his HIV infection left undiagnosed and untreated. The death certificate, out of fear of stigma, listed only pneumonia as the cause of death. His wife, HIV-negative, faced immense emotional and social stigma, fearing for her son's health. She revealed that he had secretly visited a skin clinic two years prior, where he was recommended an HIV test but had defaulted.

This case profoundly impacted me, highlighting the crucial role of empathetic listening, open-mindedness, and considering unconventional diagnoses. It underscored the devastating consequences of stigma, delayed diagnosis, and the urgent need for societal acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual orientations.

A Doctor's Dilemma

The warm glow of the evening cafe was a stark contrast to the dilemma I faced. A casual phone call from a friend, seeking medical advice, had thrown me into a moral quagmire. She recounted the story of her friend, a woman four days late on her period, with two positive pregnancy tests. The friend was considering terminating the pregnancy and wanted my input.

As a general practitioner in Sri Lanka, I was well aware of the strict laws surrounding abortion. In our country, termination is legal only when the mother's life is at risk. A deeply religious man, I found myself torn between my medical ethics and my personal beliefs. I couldn't condone abortion, yet I couldn't ignore the woman's plight.

I suggested a precautionary ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy, hoping it would buy some time. Perhaps, the delay would allow the woman to reconsider her decision. However, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had indirectly facilitated her intentions.

Should I have taken a more proactive role? Should I have tried to persuade her to continue the pregnancy, citing religious or moral grounds? Or should I have directed her to a gynecologist? Or if I didn't, would she resort to an illegal and unsafe procedure?

The weight of this decision has continued to haunt me. As a doctor, am I obligated to provide medical advice, even if it contradicts my personal beliefs? Or should I prioritize the sanctity of life, regardless of the consequences?

In a country where religion and law intertwine, these questions have no easy answers. As I ponder these ethical dilemmas, I realize that the role of a doctor often extends far beyond the realm of medicine.

A Venetian Misadventure

2018 was the year I embarked on a solo adventure to the enchanting city of Venice. Staying with my uncle and aunt in Bologna, I couldn't resist the allure of this floating masterpiece. The excitement was palpable as I purchased my train ticket to Venice, a city I had dreamed of visiting.

Armed with a small bag, a modest budget, and a heart full of anticipation, I set off. The train journey was a scenic delight, and as I arrived in Venice, I was immediately captivated by its unique charm. The narrow canals, adorned with colorful gondolas, the historic buildings, and the bustling atmosphere created a magical ambiance.

I spent hours wandering through the labyrinthine streets, admiring the stunning architecture, and capturing the beauty of the city in countless photographs. The iconic St. Mark's Square, with its magnificent basilica and towering bell tower, was a sight to behold. As I explored the city, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe.

St. Mark's Square - Venice 

Murano Hand blown Glass Horse 

A memorable moment arose when my aunt requested a Murano glass horse as a gift for a friend back in Sri Lanka. I found the perfect piece in a charming shop, but a small problem emerged. After purchasing the horse, I realized I was short on cash to buy my return train ticket. A wave of panic washed over me as I contemplated the possibility of being stranded in Venice.

In a stroke of luck, I encountered a kind Pakistani woman who, upon hearing my predicament, generously lent me the necessary funds. Overwhelmed with gratitude, I rushed to the train station, purchased my ticket, and waited for the train with just enough time to spare.

However, my Venetian adventure wasn't quite over. Just as I was waiting for the train, an urgent need arose. I rushed to the station's restroom, only to find a one-euro fee. With my limited funds, I was faced with a dilemma. I had to make a choice: relieve myself or risk an uncomfortable journey. In the end, I opted for the latter, holding on for the next thirty minutes until I could finally find relief on the train as soon as I boarded.

As the train pulled away from Venice, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's events. It had been a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement and awe to fear and relief. But through it all, I had experienced the kindness of strangers and the magic of a city that had captured my heart.

This unexpected challenge added another layer of humor and adventure to my Venetian escapade. As I reflected on the day's events, I couldn't help but smile at the absurdity of the situation. It was a reminder that even the best-laid plans can be derailed by the most unexpected circumstances.