Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation: Illuminating Lives Through Compassionate Care

In the intricate tapestry of philanthropy, the Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation (CDF) emerges as a radiant thread, weaving compassion and care into the lives of terminally ill patients in Sri Lanka. Established in 2013 by Cyril’s son BinaraDharmawardana, this Australian-based Non-Profit charity organization holds a singular focus: providing transportation facilities for every single cancer and terminally ill patient during their treatment. Rooted in a vision of dignity and comfort, CDF operates the only state-of-the-art Non-Emergency Ambulance service dedicated to cancer patients in the Developing World.

A Vision Realized

The genesis of CDF finds its roots in the poignant journey of renowned Sri Lankan actor and public figure, Cyril Dharmawardana. Diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer, Cyril underwent treatment in Australia, where he experienced the stark contrast in medical facilities between his host country and his homeland. Witnessing this disparity, Cyril envisioned a service that would extend a compassionate hand to underprivileged communities grappling with poverty-related hardships. Tragically, Cyril Dharmawardana passed away in November 2013. Within a year of his demise, his vision crystallized into the Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation. BinaraDharmawardana, the founder, committed himself to honoring his father’s legacy by providing a crucial service that addressed the unmet needs of terminally ill patients in Sri Lanka.

A Lifeline for the Vulnerable

At the heart of CDF’s mission is the provision of free transportation services for patients between hospitals and their homes during their treatment. Currently operating in the Southern and North Central regions of Sri Lanka, as well as the main Cancer hospital in the Western Province of Colombo, this service is a beacon of hope for those grappling with the challenges of post-treatment journeys. In the Developing World, the reality for many terminally ill patients is a daunting journey home after treatment. Dusty, unhygienic roads and long trips on public transport exacerbate both physical and financial burdens. Some patients, constrained by financial difficulties, resort to lying on hospital floors or forgoing meals to save for bus fare. In response to this dire need, CDF has pioneered a Free Non-Emergency Ambulance service, offering a lifeline to patients by ensuring safe transportation from hospitals to their homes. Beyond the physical comfort it provides, this service shields patients from exposure to infectious diseases prevalent in public transport.

Global Contributions to Cancer Research

CDF’s impact extends beyond immediate patient care; the foundation actively supports the Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, a global leader in cancer research based in Australia. Through volunteer activities at Peter Mac’s fundraisers and annual donations, CDF contributes to breakthrough discoveries and effective treatments for various cancers, benefitting patients worldwide.

Proud Insurance Partner: Continental Insurance

Since 2015, Continental Insurance proudly stands as a partner to the Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to assisting terminally ill patients with their transportation requirements between hospitals and homes during treatment. Regardless of the distance a patient needs to travel, this service is provided free of charge. Continental Insurance plays a vital role in ensuring the sustainability and success of CDF’s endeavors, further solidifying the foundation’s dedication to compassionate care.

Binara Dharmawardana: Steward of Compassion

At the helm of CDF stands Binara Dharmawardana, a visionary leader committed to translating compassion into action. Binara’s journey began with a profound personal experience – witnessing his father’s battle with stage IV lung cancer and the challenges he faced. This personal encounter fueled Binara’s commitment to realizing his father’s vision, providing dignity and comfort to the terminally ill. Under Binara’s leadership, CDF has become synonymous with compassion and care, symbolized by its state-of-the-art non-emergency ambulance service dedicated to cancer patients in the Developing World.

Elite Philanthropy Recognition: Royal Flying Doctor Service Gala

Binara Dharmawardana and the CDF team had the privilege of attending the Royal Flying Doctor Service annual Gala event in Australia. This exclusive event, attended by elite philanthropists, board members, and executive committees, recognized outstanding contributors to CDF in 2022. The gala not only highlighted the impactful initiatives of CDF but also showcased its commitment to excellence and innovation in healthcare services.

A Symphony of Compassion: How to Contribute

To sustain and expand its crucial services, CDF invites individuals and organizations to contribute in various impactful ways:

Sponsoring Operational Costs of Ambulances - Marketing and Advertising: Businesses and individuals can feature their signage or logos on ambulances, aligning with long-term projects and events.

Setting Up a Standing Order: Individuals can make regular contributions, dedicating specific days or periods in memory of loved ones.

Sponsoring an Ambulance: This option allows for personalized dedications or business logos on ambulances, creating a lasting tribute.

Instead of Flowers: Families can honor their loved ones by requesting donations to CDF in lieu of flowers at funerals.

Leave a Bequest in Your Will: Writing a will or part will for a benevolent cause ensures continued support for patients with terminal illnesses.

Organize a Birthday/Anniversary Fundraiser using Online Platforms Such as Facebook: Individuals can leverage online platforms like Facebook to create fundraisers, engaging friends and the wider community in contributing to CDF’s mission.

The Impact of Your Contribution

Contributions to CDF go beyond mere financial transactions; they represent a lifeline for those in desperate circumstances. By supporting CDF, donors contribute to the survival of a vital facility that ensures the highest level of quality care for patients with terminal illnesses during their most vulnerable times. Additionally, these contributions provide employment opportunities for dedicated staff, including ambulance drivers and patient careers, helping their families break free from the cycle of poverty. Donations and investments made to CDF are fully protected by the foundation’s insurance partner, Continental Insurance, and backed by DIMO agents for Mercedes Benz and Toyota in Sri Lanka.

Proud Collaborations: DIMO Lanka Mercedes Benz, Continental Insurance, CMA CGM

Since 2015, DIMO Lanka Mercedes Benz has served as the engineering partner for CDF, contributing their expertise and support. Alongside them, Continental Insurance, also a partner since 2015, has played a crucial role as the insurance partner, ensuring the protection and well-being of CDF’s operations. Adding to this collaborative effort, CMA CGM has been the shipping partner of CDF since 2014, facilitating the logistics and transportation aspects of the foundation’s endeavors. The enduring partnerships with these entities showcase the sustained commitment and support that CDF has garnered from key collaborators in different sectors, reinforcing the foundation’s ability to fulfill its mission effectively.

About Cyril Dharmawardana

Veteran actor and former Southern Provincial Council member Cyril Dharmawardana (67) passed away on November 8, 2013, at the Melbourne Peter Mac Hospital in Australia after battling cancer. Cyril JayatissaDharmawardana, who studied at Richmond College, Galle, made his debut as an actor in Henry Jayasena’s play ‘ManaranjanaWedaWarjana’. 

He later acted in stage plays like Makara, ApataPutheMagakNethe, DiriyaMawa, Duwili, etc. but his role as Saranapala in KelaniPalama became the turning point in his career. As a film actor, he displayed his prowess in Walampuri, HimaGira, Mother Teresa, AmmaiDuwai, and other creations apart from tele dramas like Giraya, Bodima, NadeeGeethaya, Hiruta Muwawen (IndiappaKathawa), Siwu Diya Dahara, and several others. 

He was married to well-known author SwarnaKanthi Rajapakse.