Congratulations to Dr. Shayri Pillai, The First Eye Cancer Specialist in Liberia
November 14, 2024: Dr. Shayri Pillai, MS, came to The New York Eye Cancer Center and completed an International 6-Month Fellowship under Dr. Paul T. Finger!
About Dr. Pillai - Studied Medicine at Nantong University, Nantong, China (Awarded 3 times with honorary academic Jiangsu scholarships) - Medical officer in JFK Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia - MS from Liberia Post Graduate College of Physicians and Surgeons, JFK Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia - MPH from Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, M.P, India - Aesthetic Medicine diploma from Canadian board from Recon Institute of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery. - Fellowship in Oculoplasty from University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa |
Experience in The New York Eye Cancer Center
I serve as the inaugural/first Oculoplasty and oncology consultant for Liberia, West Africa. It was a privilege to complete my fellowship at the New York Eye Cancer Center under the guidance of Dr. Paul T. Finger. The opportunity to shadow Dr. Finger at The New York Eye Cancer Center and during surgical procedures was truly remarkable. Throughout my fellowship, I found Dr. Finger to be an approachable, compassionate, and exceptional mentor. He demonstrates a remarkable ability to listen attentively to his patients, dedicating ample time to their needs. His daily inspiration motivates me to embody the qualities of a mentor for my juniors and students. The center's walls are adorned with impressive innovative inventions by Dr. Finger, alongside numerous significant articles authored by him, his fellows, and colleagues, all elegantly framed. I would also like to acknowledge the entire support staff at his clinic who all work sincerely like a good team, and are polite and caring towards all the patients and very friendly to fellows and visitors. He employs large-screen televisions and models to elucidate pathologies and surgical procedures, a method I consider to be highly effective. Participating in his surgeries was an extraordinary experience, during which I gained insight into his distinctive surgical techniques that resulted in outstanding visual outcomes. On behalf of my nation, Liberia, and the Ministry of Health, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to The New York Eye Cancer Center and The Eye Cancer Foundation. |
Dr. Shayri Pillai, MS at JFK Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia
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Throughout my residency, I have witnessed numerous patients, including children, tragically losing their lives due to the absence of specialized care and treatment. This experience has motivated me to pursue a career as an eye cancer specialist. The training that I received is going to have a significant impact, potentially saving the lives of many individuals not only in Liberia but also in neighboring countries that lack adequate eye care facilities. Patients from these regions often travel to our country seeking treatment. Although this journey is long, it marks an important first step. I would like to conclude by expressing my sincere appreciation to Dr. Finger, the staff at The New York Eye Cancer Center, The Eye Cancer Foundation, and all the patients.
I walk away from this experience full of inspiration and learning and I'm extremely grateful to Dr. Paul Finger for the opportunity.