Page 27 - HKU Surgery 110 Anniversary E-Book

Chapter I: The Cradle of Our Origins

he story of the Department of to the fore only in recent decades),
Surgery at The University of Hong they have the foresight and sheer
TKong is one of the successes in the willpower to advance surgery that
face of challenges and adversity. Over the has benefitted Hong Kong, mainland
past 110 years, its members have produced China and the world.
ground-breaking achievements,
significantly improved patient outcomes First among these leaders were Professor
and attracted worldwide recognition for Patrick Manson and Professor James
their achievements despite formidable Cantlie who, together with Sir Ho Kai,
challenges that include war, revolution, launched the Hong Kong College of
pandemics and political transitions, Medicine for Chinese on 1 October
as well as everyday struggles such as 1887 with modest means but a grand
overwhelming patient loads, suboptimal ambition. Manson, the Founding
working environments, shortage of Dean, articulated their aims at the
resources and even barriers to getting College’s inauguration ceremony:
graduates registered for practice. “The spread of medical science in
China, the relief of suffering, the
At the helm of the Department, prolongation of life, and, as far as
steering it through these choppy hygiene can effect this, the increase
waters, have been a remarkable group of comfort during life.”
of leaders. All talented surgeons and
mostly men (women were welcome

Students and staff at the Hong Kong College of Medicine for Chinese
(circa 1908). Co-founder Sir Ho Kai was seated centre right.

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