DR MARISSA REBELLO (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Pathology, Goa Medical College)
DR OSCAR REBELLO (Consulting Physician & well-known Activist)
The song ‘You Had Me From Hello’ by American country music artist Kenny Chesney is synonymous with the story of Dr Marissa and Dr Oscar Rebello, who had their hearts beating for each other the moment they met. It is family that holds prime value in the lives of this doctor couple who have evolved leaps and bounds together. The Rebellos are knitted together for life and find happiness in making beautiful memories as a family.
What was your first impression of each other?
Dr Marissa: We met in Goa Medical College when I was doing my internship and Oscar was a resident in the Medicine Department. I had this big crush on him, he being a larger-than- life personality. I, on the other hand, was a shy girl, one of the quietest in my batch. My heart skipped a beat when he proposed to me.
Dr Oscar: The sweet, beautiful damsel that I was sure I wanted to drop anchor with.
What qualities do you admire in each other?
Dr Marissa: I admire Oscar’s oratory skills. He is very comfortable on stage as well as on television. But most of
all, I admire that he is a dedicated, hardworking doctor who never refuses to examine a patient at any time of the day or night.
Dr Oscar: Her integrity above all else. To family, friends, job, domestic help. She never ever lies, not even white lies which we encourage her to do, but she doesn’t bite.
How has your partner contributed to your professional growth?
Dr Marissa: Oscar has been my pillar of strength during the ups and downs in my professional career and always encourages me to continue working despite the difficulties we women encounter while balancing professional and home lives.
Dr Oscar: Completely. From learning to drive, to getting me out of the cesspool of government service into the private sector, to putting up with my crazy hours and idiosyncrasies, she has been the wind beneath my wings.
How have you influenced each other’s way of living and thinking?
Dr Marissa: After my marriage to Oscar, I have become more outgoing and confident. He inspires me to do my best.
Dr Oscar: Mutual respect, trust and space to grow individually.
How do you divide responsibilities with respect to families?
Dr Marissa: Because of Oscar’s busy work schedule, I have tried my best to shoulder most of the day-to-day responsibilities at home so that he can fully dedicate himself to his profession.
Dr Oscar: There is no division here. I am the pobre fidalgo, working to bring home the bacon but every single family responsibility she has shouldered, including bringing up our smart children (who are over-smart with us!).
Read the full article in ‘Viva Goa’ magazine copy.
Viva Goa magazine is now on stands. Available at all major book stalls and supermarkets in Goa.
