Dr. Venkataswamy, founder of Aravind Eye Hospital and Acumen Fund partner, was remembered this past weekend in a new Wall Street Journal feature that notes the passing of important people who have left an imprint on the world of business.
For everyone lucky enough to have met Dr. V, he was an extraordinary individual in every way, who did what so many of us dream about- he changed the world. As important, he made the world a better place just by being in it, just by walking through it in a way filled with dignity and respect for everyone he met.
I once asked Dr. V how he thought about God. He told me that for him, God existed in the place where all beings were interconnected. He was able to fuse the power of an unsentimental approach to treating poor people in the most effective way with the moral imagination to see people, really see them, and listen to their needs and dreams. In this way, I think he saw godliness and beauty in all people and all things.
Dr. Venkataswamy lived a rare life and influenced many he met and millions he never knew. His life’s legacy will continue through Aravind, an extraordinary institution managed by a truly unique family.
Dr. V and his amazing work are truly an example for many. I remember when first starting to research and read about the BOP I discovered his work. We can only hope his extraordinary ideas, caring, and motivation will be the seed of many business concepts and ideas to come.
If you are not familiar with Dr. V’s work, and would like a quick summary; I had complied one after reading about his work. Feel free to visit it under Research -> Real-World Examples http://www.globalexpanse.com/index.php?/2sday/ (external site)
” One of the essential qualities of the clinician is interest in humanity, for the secret of the care of the patient is in caring for the patient.” - Frances Weld Peabody in “The Care of the Patient”
Reply to Chad Weinman