APPRECIATION
Dr. Riley Fernando

Much will be written about the multifaceted life of Dr. Riley Fernando—about his being, a kind and caring doctor, a talented poet, a devoted family man, a devout Christian and a doughty fighter for justice and fair play. In this appreciation, I will be writing on his role as an entertainer an record his contribution to the Doctors Wives Association Annual Concerts. Riley’s wife Manel has always been and active and supportive member of our association since its beginnings in 1985 and Riley has played an active role in our events.

At the Annual Members Get-together the most popular item in the programme has been the concert. Usually the script of the skits is written by a member, directed by a member and acted by members. The spouses preferred to sit back and enjoy themselves. But soon a few spouses began to participate in the performances giving us of their time and talent in acting, dancing and singing. These doctors included Drs. J B Peries, Preethi Wijegoonawardene, BAV Perera, Dennis Aloysius, Lalith Perera and Riley Fernando with his solo performances

Riley was unique in that he sang and recited his own compositions in song and verse. He was a performer par excellence. He had the audience in fits of laughter.

To recall a few of the classics from among them, I remember his parody on the song "Darling I am growing old", his song on the controversial topic of the nutritional value of "Avocado" and his composition on the Customs Officer and the pretty, curvaceous, female gem smuggler. He sang all these in a lilting manner and was much appreciated by the audiences.

On another occasion at our Get-together we offered a prize to the first gentleman who came up to the podium wearing his wife’s ear studs. Riley eagerly got up plucked Manel’s ear studs, clipped them on his ears, rushed to the stage and collected the prize for the "Sportiest doctor of the evening". Riley was so full of boyish good humour and so he took an active part in the fun and games of the evening.

For our 18th anniversary celebrations held in June this year I invited Riley to entertain us once again. Riley was hospitalized and he sent a message of regrets to us promising full support for our efforts. Sadly Riley passed away a week before our show.

Riley is dead and gone. Nevertheless we will remember him for entertaining us with his wit, funny poems and humorous songs and for bringing us so much happiness and laughter.
Chrissie Aloysius
President
Doctors’ Wives Association