Chicago: The Indian American Medical Asso-ciation of Illinois hosted its 29th anniversary gala event at Waterford Banquets and Conference Center in Elmhurst on November 7. The function was well atten-ded by physicians, politicians and the general public.
Hasan Merchant, CEO of Women’s Doc, welcomed the gathering and introduced the EMR companies present. He and Dr. Sheri Merchant have been instrumental in organizing, raising funds and support to the IAMA for a long time. After highlighting the benefits of EMR, the vendors presented their respective packages to the audience.
Dr. Annita John, secretary, and Dr. Sheri Merchant were the masters of ceremonies. They welcomed the chief guest Governor Pat Quinn and thanked him for attending and lending his support to the organization, and also to the guest of honor Congressman Peter Roskam in absentia. Rani Chovatiya and Dr. Sheetal Patel sang the national anthem. Dr. Utpal Parekh, president of IAMA, said a short prayer invoking world peace.
Dr. Utpal Parekh thanked the Governor and spoke a about his accomplishments as its president. His accomplishments included implementing a state-of-the-art functional and interactive Web site; holding of a health care forum which was attended by Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson, high level representatives from AMA, and many others; involvement of prominent members of the community; a CME trip to Africa which was touted as the best trip; connectivity with AAPI and local healthcare organizations of dentists, pharmacists and nurses to form a consortium for hosting events jointly and commitment to promoting medical students, residents and fellows and promoting the IAMA Charitable Foundation and Clinic.
Dr. Parekh concluded his speech by saying: “It reinforces my faith in America where I still believe we can make anything happen if we believe in ourselves and work hard enough.”
Pat Quinn thanked and appreciated the IAMA of IL for doing an outstanding job for the past 30 years by providing free medical services to the underserved through its Charitable Clinic and for providing continuing medical education programs to its members thus ensuring quality care to patients.
Pat Quinn and Dr. Parekh presented the awards. The distinguished physician award was bestowed on Dr. Valluvan Jeevanandam, who specializes in surgical management of heart failure and who is an expert in high risk cardiac surgery. The service excellence award was presented to Dr. Manish Brahmbhatt, director and section head of Medical Consultant County Hospital.
The excellence in community service award was presented to “Apna Ghar” and Mafat Patel. The service excellence award was bestowed on Hasan Merchant.
Dr. Annita John, conducted a short business meeting and presented the names of the IAMA Executive Committee for 2010.
Babra and party presented an enjoyable music and entertainment program.
IAMA-IL hosts 29th anniversary gala event
