Niblett praised for his passion

ONCOLOGIST Dr John Stokes Niblett (pictured) who died on Tuesday last week, has been praised as a man who served the people of Morobe and the country with passion.
He was not only an oncologist but a great man, a husband who was friendly to all cancer patients, colleagues and whoever that came across him, said Sheila Harou, the acting administrator of Angau Memorial Hospital in Lae.
“Dr Niblett has contributed his heart passionately to 800,000 Morobe people and PNG,” Harou said at Dr Niblett’s funeral service at St Mary’s Cathedral, Top Town, Lae, on Tuesday.
The funeral was attended by colleagues at the cancer treatment centre, ENT cancer research specialist Dr Joseph Garap, patients, Angau Hospital staff and board chairman David Wissink.
Dr Niblett was 78 and best known for his work at the Angau Hospital, serving in PNG’s only cancer ward for more than 30 years.
At the time of his death, he was involved in a court battle over his entitlements after the Department of Health opted not to renew his contract earlier in the year.
Dr Garap said Dr Niblett served with patience, honesty, integrity and kindness.
“In fact, Niblett left a vacuum in cancer treatment centre which the country is unable to fill the gap immediately” Dr Garap said.
“Niblett saved and served PNG without doubt, despite disability, his heart and mind is always cancer patients first before himself.
“He is a true servant-leader that will be remembered for his sincere service to this country.”
Another tribute came from fellow physician Dr Cathy Timothy who said “Niblett served with great intellect, passion and integrity.
Governor Kelly Naru also sent his condolences to Dr Niblett’s widow Andrea and their children.