Pediatric surgeons play a crucial role in the care of children focusing exclusively on the surgical needs of children from birth to adolescence. Their specialized expertise is essential in addressing a spectrum of conditions unique to children, ranging from congenital defects, urological problems, abdominal diseases, respiratory emergencies, childhood cancers, and traumatic injuries. By utilizing advanced surgical techniques tailored to children's smaller anatomies and developing physiology, paediatric surgeons minimize the risk of complications and promote faster recovery times. Beyond their technical skills, paediatric surgeons provide emotional support to young patients and their families, ensuring a compassionate and child-friendly healthcare experience laying the foundation for a healthy future generation.

Dr. Antony Robert Charles is one such pediatric surgeon whose journey commenced with MBBS training at St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, winning the Pope Paul Prize for being the best outgoing student, followed by postgraduate studies in General Surgery at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai and Pediatric Surgery at AIIMS New Delhi 25 years ago. Subsequently he worked at the Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia before returning to India. He now heads Kinder surge, a group of pediatric surgeons committed to excellence in paediatric surgery. His journey, of overcoming health challenges, fuels his passion for pediatric surgery, embodying empathy and resilience. A lot of credit goes to the fact that Dr. Charles himself as a baby was operated by his mentor-surgeon Dr. Joseph Antony.

Dr. Charles feels his life is spent fruitfully in repaying this gift of life to his surgeon, nurses, family and society by being a pediatric surgeon himself. Dr. Charles finds solace in the enduring impact of pediatric surgery, knowing that the lives he touches will flourish far beyond his own life span. He adds, “Contrary to apprehensions, children exhibit remarkable resilience, often surpassing adults in post-surgical recovery. Successful interventions typically yield a normal lifespan, with minimal long-term impact on lifestyle, barring specific conditions. Witnessing children's resilience firsthand, as pediatric surgeons we are inspired to deliver excellence”.

The unique approach, emphasizing excellence, inclusivity, & community engagement, sets Dr. Charles apart, making him a beacon of hope & healing in pediatric surgical care

Dr. Charles stresses that collaboration with pediatricians underscores a team approach to diagnosis and treatment, ensuring optimal outcomes, with surgical intervention deployed judiciously leading to a safe patient-centred practice. Speaking of advancements he reflects on the trans-formative advancements in pediatric surgery, safer anaesthesia, critical care, minimally invasive techniques and fetal surgery. With laparoscopic instruments shrinking to a mere three milli metres, surgeries once deemed invasive, are now minimally intrusive. He underscores the ethical imperative of treating each child as one's own, recognizing the holistic impact of medical decisions on families, especially economically and emotionally. Anchored in empathy, he upholds the sanctity of humanity amid surgical interventions, mindful of the privilege and responsibility bestowed upon healthcare professionals.

Collaborating with a dedicated team of 6 other pediatric surgeons (Kinder surge) across various city sectors, the group ensures accessibility to surgery irrespective of financial constraints. Dr. Charles takes pride in fostering a supportive community of parents whose shared experiences alleviate anxieties and provide invaluable support. This unique approach, emphasizing excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement, sets Dr. Charles apart, making him a beacon of hope and healing in pediatric surgical care.

Looking ahead, Dr. Charles envisions a multifaceted future, embracing roles beyond surgery. He heeds lessons from a study on surgeons' retirement preparing to transition at least a decade prior and ensuring continuity through team delegation. His NGO, Child First Foundation, embodies his commitment to child welfare, a cause he plans to champion post-retirement. Embracing diverse interests like school education, model shipbuilding, embroidery, motivational talks and group sharing, he nurtures mental well-being. He owes his sanity and success to his close-knit family comprising his wife Maryann Washington, daughter Abigail and son Jonathan and credits the role of his close friends in maintaining a life balance.