A pioneering Turkish physician and academic who fought against leprosy and founded a charitable organization to support education and healthcare for underprivileged women and children.
Dr. Trkan Saylan, a Turkish medical doctor, writer, teacher, and social activist, is renowned for her relentless battle against leprosy, a disease that has plagued humanity for centuries. As the founder of the Association for the Support of Contemporary Living (Çağdaş Yaşamı Destekleme Derneği, YDD), she dedicated her life to eradicating this debilitating disease and improving the lives of those affected by it.
Born on December 13, 1935, to Fasih Galip, a pioneering building contractor, and Swiss-born Leyla (née Lili Mina Raiman), Trkan's early life was marked by a strong sense of social responsibility. She attended Kandilli Elementary School and Kandilli Girls High School before graduating from Istanbul Medical School in 1963.
Dr. Saylan's medical career spanned over four decades, during which she worked tirelessly to combat leprosy. In 1976, she founded the Fight Against Lepra Association and Foundation, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the cause. Her expertise earned her the position of consultant in leprosy for the World Health Organization (WHO) until 2006.
Her contributions to the field of dermatology were multifaceted. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Laboratory of Dermopathology, Behçet's Disease, and Policlinics of Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Moreover, she served as the voluntary head physician at Istanbul Lepra Hospital for an impressive 21 years, from 1981 to 2002.
Dr. Saylan's selfless efforts did not go unnoticed. In 1986, she was honored with the prestigious International Gandhi Award in India, a fitting tribute to her humanitarian work.
Trkan Saylan's personal life was not without its challenges. She courageously battled breast cancer for 17 years, an experience that only strengthened her resolve to make a difference in the lives of others. She is survived by her husband, two children, and four grandchildren.
Dr. Trkan Saylan's remarkable journey came to an end on May 18, 2009, but her legacy continues to inspire generations. Her unwavering dedication to eradicating leprosy has left an indelible mark on the world of medicine and beyond. As we remember her remarkable life, we are reminded of the transformative power of compassion, empathy, and determination.
Dr. Saylan's work was guided by a profound sense of social responsibility and a deep commitment to improving the human condition. Her contributions serve as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future generations to follow in her footsteps.
Through her work, she underscored the importance of empathy, compassion, and inclusivity in healthcare, inspiring a new wave of medical professionals to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.
Dr. Trkan Saylan's fight against leprosy has had a profound impact on modern society. Her tireless efforts have helped raise awareness about the disease, reducing stigma and encouraging those affected to seek medical attention.
Her legacy extends beyond the realm of medicine, inspiring individuals to strive for a more equitable and just society. As we reflect on her remarkable life, we are reminded of the power of individual action to bring about positive change.
Dr. Trkan Saylan's extraordinary journey serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience, compassion, and determination. Her remarkable life is a powerful reminder that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with unwavering dedication and a passion for making a difference.
In the face of adversity, she chose to stand tall, using her expertise to combat a disease that had ravaged countless lives. Her story is a beacon of hope, inspiring us to strive for a world where everyone has access to quality healthcare and equal opportunities.
79 Years Old
A Turkish-American biologist and academic who discovered the molecular mechanisms of DNA repair, earning a Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2015. His work has led to a better understanding of cancer treatment and prevention.
74 Years Old
A Turkish-American novelist, screenwriter, and academic, known for blending historical and cultural elements in his literary works, which often explore the complexities of Turkish identity and history.
Born in 1881
Founder of modern Turkey, leading the country's transition from the Ottoman Empire to a secular, democratic nation, and implementing sweeping reforms in education, law, and women's rights.
