In this interview with Dr. Esther Connor, chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, Dr. Naresh Gunaratnam, president of DHPA and a physician at MNGI Digestive Health, reflects on the personal and professional experiences that have shaped his career, leadership, and commitment to service.
Dr. Gunaratnam shares his journey from Sri Lanka to the United States and how the sudden death of his father during college became a defining moment in his life. He recounts the generosity of a neighbor who helped him remain in school, a lesson that continues to inform the way he cares for patients, mentors colleagues, and supports vulnerable children through Grace Girls Home in Sri Lanka. He also discusses his own health journey and how a candid exchange with a patient led him to embrace lifestyle medicine, obesity care, and metabolic health as central parts of his work. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of mentorship, personal connection, and shared purpose within DHPA and independent GI practice.
Join Dr. Connor and Dr. Gunaratnam as they discuss resilience, service, and leadership, and explore how personal experience can shape a physician’s approach to patient care, professional growth, and giving back to others.