TRIBUTES flowed freely as former students, patients and colleagues reflected on the impact Dr Sitiveni Vudiniabola had on those he crossed paths with.
The sea of people that attended his memorial service at the Fiji National University’s nursing auditorium in Tamavua yesterday was a testament to this.
Oceania Hospitals Pte Ltd independent practitioner, Dr Joji Malani said Dr Vudiniabola’s kindness, compassion and humble nature set him apart from other medical practitioners.
“He left this world doing what he cherished most, standing beside the operating table preparing for a surgery.
“In that moment he was at the height of his profession.”
He said the safety of the patients, regardless of the complexity of the surgery, was always a top priority.
Fellow surgeon Professor Eddie McCaig said Dr Vudiniabola was a great serviceman, mentor and teacher.
“Siti was a special individual, so committed to his ideals, his family, his profession and to his country Fiji,” he said.
“His contribution to surgery will be remembered through all of us.”
Dr Vudiniabola was buried at the old Suva cemetery in Lovonilase.
He was affectionately known as Dr Siti and worked as a consultant general surgeon with more than 30 years of experience. He was a also registered specialist.
His extensive work experience in the field of medicine included the Oceania Hospitals Pte Ltd and the Suva Private Hospital.
Dr Vudiniabola died on August 15 at the age of 63.
