The founder of our charity, Rise & Shine Inc., is a family medicine physician with a deep-seated passion for improving the lives of people worldwide. Her journey began during a trip back to her home country, Sri Lanka, where she witnessed firsthand the struggles of people whose basic needs were not being met. This experience, coupled with the health challenges faced by her aunt (Sithi), who was battling diabetes despite having access to the country’s best medical care, sparked a realization in Dr. Sathiyaseelan. She understood that the key to a healthy lifestyle lies in awareness, prevention, and empowerment.

A visit to a small school in Kilinochi, Sri Lanka, further opened her eyes to the significant impact small changes can make. She saw how a $3 solar lantern could transform a child’s life, providing them with the means to study after dark and thus, a chance at a better future. This experience solidified her decision to specialize in family medicine, allowing her to follow her passion for healing the underserved.

Choosing the rural Appalachian community as the base for her venture, Dr. Sathiyaseelan started what was initially a small project. However, her dedication and commitment saw it grow into an international venture, reaching several communities across North America, South America, Asia, and Africa.

Despite our growth, Rise & Shine Inc. remains a small organization with a big dream. Under the guidance of Dr. Sathiyaseelan and our board members, we plan to innovate through research and development. Our goal is to create a direct line from cutting-edge medicine in the USA to poverty-stricken pockets of the globe. We believe that by learning from each other, we can build a better future for everyone.