On Wednesday, October 30, 2024 the sub-region of Acholi and the country at large lost a gallant son, Dr. Cyprian Opira. Fondly called Dr. CP, Dr. Opira was a Consultant Radiologist and Executive Director of St. Mary’s Hospital, Lacor. He came to work at the hospital as an intern Medical Officer in 1983 and served with dedication, compassion till his departure.
Hon. Lyandro Komakech pays tribute to Dr. Cyprian Opira.
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Dr. Cyprian Opira’s passing is an immeasurable loss, not only for St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, where he served as Executive Director, but for the entire community of Northern Uganda and beyond. Dr. Opira was more than a leader; he was a beacon of hope and a true humanitarian. His life was dedicated to healing, upliftment, and unyielding service to the people of Uganda, particularly in a region that has seen profound suffering and hardship over the years.
Born and raised in Northern Uganda, Dr. Opira had a deep, personal understanding of the challenges facing his community. His path was one marked by determination, resilience, and a desire to alleviate the suffering he saw around him. After completing his medical education, Dr. Opira returned to his homeland, bringing with him not only medical skills but a vision of transforming healthcare in a region marked by limited access to resources, economic difficulties, and the lasting scars of conflict.
Under his leadership, St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor became a sanctuary of hope and healing for thousands. In a part of the world where healthcare can often seem out of reach, Dr. Opira’s dedication ensured that Lacor was not just a hospital, but a haven for those in need. He understood that healthcare extends beyond mere treatment—it involves dignity, compassion, and understanding the humanity of each patient. Through his work, he reminded everyone that every life is valuable, that every individual deserves care, and that no challenge was too great to face together.
His vision for Lacor Hospital went beyond immediate healthcare. Dr. Opira championed sustainable growth, empowering his team with resources and training to strengthen the hospital’s infrastructure and its ability to deliver quality medical care even in the most trying times. He encouraged young Ugandans to pursue medical careers, nurturing a generation of healthcare providers who could continue his legacy. For many years, he worked side by side with local and international teams, fostering partnerships to bring much-needed resources, training, and expertise to the hospital. His work with international partners helped secure funding and support that have allowed Lacor to remain a center of excellence, accessible to the most vulnerable and underserved communities.
During the difficult years of insurgency and conflict, Dr. Opira’s courage shone through. Northern Uganda endured significant hardships during the years of violence involving the Lord’s Resistance Army, with communities displaced, lives lost, and families torn apart. Through it all, Dr. Opira was there—often risking his own life—to keep the doors of Lacor Hospital open. The hospital became a safe haven for countless people fleeing violence, a place where they could find not only medical care but a sense of refuge and compassion. His resilience and dedication in the face of such adversity were nothing short of heroic.
Dr. Opira’s impact extended far beyond the hospital grounds. He was deeply engaged with the community, understanding that true health is about more than treating illness. He was passionate about addressing the underlying social and economic factors that influence health, advocating for education, poverty alleviation, and the development of essential infrastructure. His involvement helped to lay the groundwork for a healthier and more hopeful future for Northern Uganda, inspiring others to take an active role in building a better life for their communities.
In his humility, Dr. Opira never sought personal recognition; his reward was the knowledge that he had made a difference. His kindness and warmth were palpable, and his life was an embodiment of selflessness and grace. For his colleagues, he was a mentor and a friend. For his patients, he was a compassionate caregiver who treated everyone with dignity, no matter their circumstances. For his community, he was a guiding light and a symbol of hope.
Dr. Opira’s legacy will forever remain intertwined with the story of Lacor Hospital and Northern Uganda. His contributions have laid a foundation that will continue to support and inspire future generations of healthcare providers, leaders, and community advocates. His life reminds us of the profound impact one individual can have, of how service and dedication can transform not only lives but entire communities. His spirit will live on in every patient healed, every healthcare provider trained, and every act of kindness inspired by his memory.
To the family of Dr. Opira, to the staff at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, and to the community he served so faithfully, we offer our deepest condolences. May we all carry forward his legacy of compassion, courage, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of others. Rest in peace, Dr. Cyprian Opira. You have left an indelible mark on the world, and your spirit will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know you or to be touched by your extraordinary life’s work.
Hon. Lyandro Komakech
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