“사진 속 이태석 신부님 보며 힘내” 남수단 최초 신경과 전문의 탄생

A pioneering neurosurgeon from the Democratic Republic of the Congo was born in South Sudan, where he was a priest and doctor who dedicated his life to serving his community. His legacy lives on in South Sudan's first neurosurgeon, Joseph (36), who graduated from the University of Addis Ababa's medical school in Ethiopia and became the nation's first neurosurgeon at a hospital in Addis Ababa.

Joseph's journey began when he met and fell in love with the aforementioned South Sudanese priest, who founded the first neurosurgery program in his hometown, Tons, during a period of civil war. Joseph and his fellow priest-turned-neurosurgeon worked tirelessly to rebuild schools, hospitals, and even a brass band to help afflicted children.

Joseph, who passed away in 2010 from brain cancer, touched the lives of many through his compassionate care and innovative spirit. The Joseph's story was later documented in the film "Stop Crying, Tons," which helped to raise awareness of his incredible work. The Joseph's story has touched many hearts, including the heart of another South Sudanese individual who was inspired to support Joseph's medical education.

In exchange for a scholarship to study medicine at Seoul National University, Joseph vowed to return to his hometown and provide care for those who had not received the same opportunities. Joseph's choice of neurosurgery was particularly poignant, as South Sudan was lacking in this specialty. He vowed to use his education to provide greater care and love to his community, always keeping the memory of the South Sudanese priest who inspired him close to his heart.