Dr S. D. Atukorala:A pillar of Sri Lanka’s microbiology landscape is no more

By Dr B. J. C. Perera

Specialist Consultant Paediatrician

Our very dear friend and professional associate, Dr S. D. Atukorala MBBS, MD (Micro), Dip. Bact, FACP, FRCPath, bid adieu to this mortal world on the 02nd of March 2024, following a sojourn in it for a most fruitful and exemplary 79 years. I write this eulogy as a person who has known him initially as a fellow medical student just one year junior to me, then as a junior doctor, and later as a much-admired consultant colleague, and above all, as a very close and cherished friend.

“Atu”, as he was ever so affectionately known to all of us, was a man of singular eminence whose contributions to the healthcare of our nation, and most specifically to microbiology, would take reams of writing to even begin to do justice to them. Yet for all that, the main reason why he may not have been all that well-known outside the medical circles, is the fact that he belonged to one of those rare breeds of people who would do what had to be done without fanfare. You would never ever find him pontificating loudly on any initiative that he was involved in.

Dr Atukorala’s real journey in microbiology began in 1981 when he was appointed as the first permanent Consultant Clinical Bacteriologist of the Department of Microbiology in the National Hospital of Sri Lanka in Colombo. This department played a crucial role in diagnosing and managing infectious diseases in Sri Lanka. Dr Atukorala’s arrival there marked a pivotal moment, as he brought a touch of accomplished expertise in a field still evolving within the country. One of the most remarkable aspects of Dr. Atukorala’s career was his ability to single-handedly run the microbiological services at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, at the very helm of that department, during the early 1980s. That was a time of great upheaval and uncertainty. Yet for all that, the man rose to the occasion with grace, fortitude, and determination. His tireless efforts ensured that patients received the care and treatment they so desperately needed, even in the face of overwhelming challenges and adversity.

His career in medicine was characterized by his tireless dedication to his patients and his unwavering commitment to excellence. As a consultant microbiologist at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, he played a pivotal role in providing care to those in need, particularly during the darkest days of the Sri Lankan Civil War. During that tumultuous period, Dr Atukorala worked tirelessly to provide medical assistance to soldiers who had been injured in battle. Despite the chaos and uncertainty that surrounded the entire country, he remained steadfast in his determination to save lives and alleviate suffering. His selflessness and courage served as a beacon of hope for those who were in desperate need of medical attention.

Atu’s dedication extended beyond clinical practice. He recognized the importance of fostering a competent workforce and actively participated in training medical professionals. The NHSL Department of Microbiology, under his guidance, became an approved training centre for medical officers and laboratory technologists. He nurtured countless students, instilling in them the essential knowledge and skills required to combat infectious diseases effectively. Furthermore, Dr. Atukorala actively engaged in research, both independently and in collaboration with other institutions. His research interests encompassed various aspects of medical microbiology and infection control, contributing valuable insights into the local disease burden and the development of effective diagnostic and treatment strategies. His research, presented and published at both local and international platforms, garnered recognition for Sri Lanka’s contributions to the field of microbiology.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Atu was known for his warmth, humour, and his infectious smile. He had a knack of bringing joy and laughter to those around him, even in the most trying of times. There was never a dull moment with him around us. His presence lit up the room, and his kind-hearted nature endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. More than anything, most of us will miss that sense of closeness and camaraderie when he was around.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to his wife Emeritus Professor Sunethra and their children and grandchildren. As we mourn our loss, we need to acknowledge and celebrate the legacy that Dr S. D. Atukorala left behind. His dedication to his patients, his commitment to excellence, and his unwavering compassion should serve as an inspiration to many a generation to come. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit lives on in the lives of all of us whose hearts he touched and warmed. We need to reminisce with gratitude the time we shared with such a unique personality and the memories we hold so dear.

May the legacy of this man for all seasons continue to inspire us to strive wholeheartedly for greater responsibility towards serving others with compassion, and to live our lives with purpose and meaning. The man will be deeply missed, but his impact will never be forgotten.

We do wish him eternal bliss in the next world.