In a groundbreaking development for pediatric oncology in Sri Lanka, the country’s first unit dedicated to bone marrow and blood cell transplantation for children with cancer was inaugurated today at the Apeksha Hospital in Maharagama.
This historic achievement was made possible through the generosity of devotees from the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya and the construction efforts of the Sri Lanka Air Force.
Transforming Lives with Advanced Treatment
The new unit offers hope to children battling cancer by providing timely and advanced treatments locally, eliminating the need for costly trips abroad that previously burdened families with expenses running into millions of rupees. With the capacity to treat four children simultaneously, the unit marks a significant step toward improved healthcare outcomes for young patients.
Devotees’ Contributions Turned into Life-Saving Infrastructure
Venerable Kobawaka Dhamminda Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Kirivehera Temple, expressed profound gratitude, stating,
“The funds donated by devotees to seek the blessings of the Kataragama deity have now been transformed into this hospital. I believe the hundreds of thousands of contributors will be overjoyed to know their generosity has supported such a noble cause.”
The Basnayake Nilame of Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya, Dishan Gunasekara, highlighted the temple’s growth and its role in healthcare development:
“When I assumed the role of Basnayake Nilame, the temple’s income stood at 50 million rupees. Last year, it exceeded 400 million rupees, an eightfold increase. With this income, we constructed this unit and are also upgrading the Kataragama Hospital with a new 44-bed complex, now 80% complete.”
Government Commitment to Healthcare
Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa underscored the government’s dedication to long-term healthcare investment, noting:
“This year’s budget allocates the highest amount ever for the Ministry of Health. Our development activities are guided by a 20-year national plan, and we expect hospital directors to align with this vision, showcasing what our hospitals can achieve in the next 15 years.”
A Legacy of Generosity
The unit inaugurated today is part of the four-story pediatric ward complex opened on September 3rd, 2024, also funded by donations from the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya. This state-of-the-art complex is equipped with modern facilities necessary for treating children with cancer, further demonstrating the impact of collective generosity and strategic planning.
