Compassionate Caregiver Dr. Eck Remembered As Nation Mourns

A wave of sadness is being felt across Belize tonight following the passing of beloved pediatrician Dr. Cecilio Eck. For decades, Dr. Shrek, as he was affectionately known, was more than just a doctor. He was a lifeline for countless children and families, known for his compassion, his humor, and his unwavering dedication to saving young lives both here and abroad. From his work as a pediatrician to his leadership with World Pediatrics, colleagues say his impact on Belize’s healthcare system is immeasurable, and his absence leaves a deep void that will not be easily filled. Tonight, we look back at the life and legacy of a man many are calling irreplaceable.

 

Zenida Lanza, Reporting

Dr. Cecilio Eck built his career one small patient at a time. For more than two decades at Coral Grove Medical Center, he turned a doctor’s office into a place kids actually looked forward to visiting. A colorful wheel of lollipops greeted patients at the door, a stash of stickers was always within arm’s reach, and a small Shrek figurine watched over it all, earning him the nickname everyone knew him by: Dr. Shrek.  He had a gift for making children forget they were sick, and parents forget they were worried.

 

Khailyn Tillett, Patient (File: July 19, 2024)

“One of my favorite days was a time when I went for a checkup  and he was being  really goofy with me and I got a lot of stickers and I got a lollipop.”

 

Dr. Eck’s reach went far   beyond his office walls. As Medical Director for World Pediatrics, he accompanied critically ill children on flights out of the country when surgeries could not be performed in Belize. He did it not for recognition or reward, but because, as those closest to him say, that was simply who he was.

 

Milagro Garel, Country Director, World Pediatrics

“I can’t even wrap my head around how we will ever replace him. Our light has been dimmed and just the way that Dr. Ek mentored us and helped us to overcome so many challenges in country. And he always ensured that we treated each family with such love and grace and kindness. And really no hill or mountain was too hard for him to climb to be able to help children in every capacity.”

 

In July 2024, the man who had spent his life caring for the sick became a patient himself. A chance scan at the KHMH revealed stage-four biliary tract cancer. What followed was an outpouring of national support, fundraisers, GoFundMe campaigns, and rosaries prayed by hundreds across the country. And through it all, Dr. Eck chose to speak openly about his journey.

 

Dr. Cecilio Eck, Pediatrician (File: January 22, 2026)

“I’ve chosen to make this my illness public for the simple fact that I want to raise awareness for cancer and I want everybody to not be so afraid of it.”

 

Even as his health declined, Dr. Eck never stopped fighting, nor did he stop inspiring those around him. Colleagues say his humor, faith, and kindness remained constant, even in the most difficult moments, and that is how they say he will be remembered.

 

Milagro Garel

“Families and the children will remember his humor. And, every Christmas we would give out so many gifts, but he refused to dress like Santa Claus. He came as he was, and always bringing so much joy to children and all the lollipops in his pediatric center, and just brought out the best in every single person that he met. We are so humbled and privileged that we were able to be a part of Dr. Ek’s career in Belize. And I know that everyone, that our nation, is mourning today. But the way that he has faced this challenge is going to play a major role because he did with faith and good grace and humor, and that’s how we will remember him.”

 

Tonight, as Belize mourns his passing, Dr. Eck’s legacy will live on not only in the patients he saved, but in the countless lives he touched with compassion, kindness, and care. Reporting for News Five, I am Zenida Lanza.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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