Dr. Mabel Legori, MBBS, MD, FRCPath
Former Professor and Head
Department of Microbiology
Government Medical College , Trivandrum
Dr. Mabel Thykkuttathil Job (September 18th, 1943 - September 29th, 2022) -a journey unfolded across different landscapes and realms of expertise.Born in the charming town of Mangalore, Karnataka, India, she embarked on a life's voyage that left an indelible mark. Her early years saw her family relocating to Cochin, Kerala, where her foundation of growth was nurtured.
Completing her schooling at St. Theresa's College, Cochin, Dr. Mabel proceeded to attain a medical degree from the prestigious Government Medical College, Kottayam. A significant juncture in her life arose with her marriage to Dr. Alphonse Legori in 1969, setting the stage for her remarkable odyssey. She took on the role of a Microbiology lecturer and went on to achieve an MD in Microbiology, carving her path as a dedicated expert in her field.
Dr. Mabel's journey took her through various corridors of knowledge and service, including roles as a Microbiologist in several esteemed Government Medical colleges across Kerala. Her thirst for learning and global exposure led her to England , where she acquired the FRCPath in 1980, while making significant contributions as a consultant microbiologist at the Leeds General Infirmary. During this period, her perspective on the future of Clinical Microbiology crystallized, driven by her active participation in clinical rounds and her involvement in managing critical infections necessitating urgent care services.
Her sense of patriotism and commitment were compelling forces that guided her decisions. In 1983, she returned to India, relinquishing her prestigious role in England, to serve her homeland as a Clinical Microbiologist. Her arrival marked a turning point, challenging the conventional roles of MD Microbiologists confined to laboratories with limited working hours. Inspired by her experiences, where collaboration of a Clinical Microbiologist with treating physicians transformed patient outcomes, she aspired to revolutionize the Indian healthcare landscape.
Dr. Mabel's endeavors within India commenced with the establishment of the first 24-hour Microbiology laboratory in the Government sector at Government Medical College Trivandrum. Her unwavering determination was buoyed by a dedicated team of postgraduate students who embraced night duties under her guidance. These students were not only nurtured in laboratory skills but also cultivated as comprehensive clinicians, engaging in ward rounds, emergency consultations, outbreak management, and clinical research.
Her impact amplified when the AIDS pandemic gripped India, revealing her prowess not only as a diagnostician but also as a compassionate social scientist. Her empathetic approach to patient care was instrumental in counseling those affected by the disease. In July 1996, she founded the Academy of Clinical Microbiologists, encapsulating her vision for the clinical application of Microbiology. Driven by her tireless efforts, ACM transformed mindsets and inspired the next generation of clinical microbiologists across India.
Dr. Mabel Legori was not only a pioneering figure but also a guiding light who illuminated paths for generations to come. Her influence transcended her role, impacting students and patients alike in the hospitals she graced. Fondly remembered by her students, she instilled a legacy of accurate and timely Microbiology reporting coupled with clinical collaboration for holistic patient care. Her vibrant persona and enduring work continue to resonate, embodying a legacy of passion, dedication, and transformative change in the field of microbiology.
