Shillong, Oct 11: Bethany Hospitals hosted the Third Dr John L Sailo Ryntathiang Memorial Oration, an annual event to commemorate the legacy and remarkable contributions of founder Dr John L. Sailo Ryntathiang, on Thursday at Winderemere Hotel.
The oration was delivered by Dr R. Ravi Kannan, Director of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Silchar, Padma Shri and Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, known for his ground-breaking work in affordable cancer care for marginalised communities.
Dr Kannan’s address centred around the theme of ‘Compassion, Sustainability and Innovation in Healthcare’, reflecting on his transformative journey at Cachar Cancer Hospital, which has evolved from a 20-bed facility to a 146-bed hospital with five campuses, all while embracing a pro-poor model.
Kannan offered profound reflections on the theme of inequality, which resonated deeply with the audience: “The truth is, we’re all created unequal. Whatever democracy might say, we’re not really equal…We were endowed unequally because whoever made this decision said that we would probably hold what we have in trust, use what is needed for ourselves, and the vast amount of excess we have, we will use for the benefit of those who do not have. I think that reflects the philosophy of Dr Sailo.”
The event was further enriched by enchanting musical performances from Benedict Skhemlang Hynniewta and his team, as well as the violinist Emidaka Mabel Lyngdoh and her team.
