In the spotlight today…

She is a ray of sunshine; a beacon of strength and a monument of hope.

Her unwavering resilience and limitless empathy, fueled by her desire to ease the pain of anyone in need, speaks for itself. The commitment and sacrifices she has made to provide support to patients diagnosed with cancer and their families, by setting up the Indira Cancer Trust and Suwa Arana; alongside her father, former speaker of parliament Hon Karu Jayasuriya; in remembrance of her beloved sister, who fought her battle with breast cancer, fearlessly, right to the end, has done wonders in shedding a ray of hope on the lives of those battling cancer.

Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake is a medical graduate who earned her MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) from Leeds University in the UK before earning her MBA in Healthcare Sciences from Manipal University in India. She presently holds the position of Chairperson/Trustee of the Non-Governmental Organization Indira Cancer Trust, which supports cancer patients and their families through over 23 programs. Alongside the Indira Cancer Trust, Sri Lanka’s first Pediatric Palliative Care Center- “Suwa Arana- A Place for Healing” was also opened on the 29^th of June 2023.

Having set the stage with a glimpse of her remarkable journey, it’s now time to pull back the curtain and uncover the true essence of Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake through this exclusive interview.

1. Dr. Lanka, how would you define yourself? What made you the person you are today?

I am Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson of Indira Cancer Trust. My journey has been shaped by my sister and her loss and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. My experiences as a medical professional, combined with experiences faced and determination, have shaped me into the person I am today.

2. What motivated you to set up the Indira Cancer Trust and Suwa Arana? 

The motivation behind establishing Indira Cancer Trust and Suwa Arana stems from the experience of the care my sister received at the end of life and the deep-rooted desire to alleviate the physical, emotional, and financial burdens faced by cancer patients and their families. Witnessing the challenges firsthand, my father was inspired to create a platform that offers comprehensive support, treatment, and care.

3. How did you feel when all your work came to life? 

Witnessing the realization of Indira Cancer Trust and Suwa Arana has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. The impact these initiatives have on the lives of individuals and families dealing with cancer is heartwarming. Indira Cancer Trust provides vital services ranging from early detection to counseling, and Suwa Arana offers a haven of holistic healing. Knowing that our efforts make a positive impact, fuels our dedication to these endeavors.

4. When you were growing up, did you ever think that you’d be here today, doing all this amazing work?

While growing up, I could never have imagined the path I would tread. The incredible journey of establishing and nurturing these organizations has been a truly unexpected but immensely rewarding endeavor. It stemmed from the life-changing situation of losing my sister and this experience has created and changed our families’ entire outlook.

5. Is there anything you would change about your past? 

I believe that every step, every challenge, and every decision in my past has led me to where I am today. Each experience has shaped my approach and determination to make a difference.

6. What is the message you’d like to give to patients diagnosed with cancer, and their families?

To those diagnosed with cancer and their families, I want to convey a message of hope, strength, and resilience. Cancer is a formidable challenge, but with the right support, information, and a positive mindset, it is possible to navigate through these tough times. Indira Cancer Trust and Suwa Arana are here to provide a compassionate and supportive hand through every step of the journey.

7. Finally, what message would you like to give to the youth of today? How can they be a part of the work you are doing?

To the youth of today, I encourage you to embrace empathy as a driving force for change. The ability to empathize and understand the pain of others is a powerful tool for making a difference. Volunteering your time, skills, and compassion can bring about positive transformation in the lives of those in need. Join hands with initiatives like ours, contribute to the well-being of society, and experience the profound fulfillment that comes with making a positive impact.

Let us come together to create a world where compassion and support reign, where the journey of cancer is met with strength, and where hope becomes a guiding light for all. Thank you.

With warm regards,

Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake

Chairperson, Indira Cancer Trust

As we reflect on Dr. Lanka’s journey, we are reminded that life often presents unexpected paths, and it’s our responses to these challenges that define us. The creation of Indira Cancer Trust and Suwa Arana is a beacon of hope, offering a lifeline to countless individuals and families confronting the heart-wrenching battle against cancer.

Dr. Lanka’s message to all of us, especially the youth, is clear: embrace empathy as a force for change, extend your hand to those in need, and together, let us create a world where compassion and support shine brightly. In the face of adversity, strength and hope prevail.

Written by: Rtr. Manushi Rathnayake

Graphic design by: Rtr. Sathmi Dinanja