India Tribune Newsdesk
Chicago, IL: The Indian American Medical Association Charitable Foundation (IAMACF) transformed the Waterford Banquet Hall into a beacon of compassion and community during its 31st Annual Fundraising Gala, held on April 26, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM at 933 S. Riverside Dr., Elmhurst, IL. Over 300 physicians, medical students, and supporters came together to raise crucial funds for the Seva Community Health Clinic—a lifeline for underserved communities.
Distinguished guests included AAPI President Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Chinmaya Mission Chicago President Mrs. Rajul Bhalala, FIA Founding President Mr. Sunil Shah, ISMS President Dr. Piyush Vyas, Padma Shri Dr. Bharat Barai, and Dr. Arvind Goyal, Executive Medical Director of Illinois Health and Family Services. The evening featured inspiring speeches, vibrant cultural performances, and a nostalgic Bollywood musical journey—all celebrating IAMACF’s enduring mission to provide free, high-quality healthcare.
The evening opened with a lively social hour where exhibitors presented healthcare innovations, and attendees fostered connections in a spirit of unity. Emcees Dr. Annita John and Dr. Rajan Shah hosted with warmth and grace. Past IAMA presidents Dr. Radhika Chimata and Dr. Samir Shah performed the U.S. and Indian national anthems, setting a patriotic and heartfelt tone for the evening.
Dr. Dilip Shah, the 43rd President of the Indian American Medical Association (IAMA-IL), delivered a moving welcome, emphasizing the clinic’s role since 1994. Quoting Mother Teresa—“It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving”—he called upon attendees to help reach the Gala’s $220,000 fundraising goal for expanded clinic services.
IAMA-IL Secretary Dr. Rajeev Kumar led the semi-annual business meeting, introducing the 2025 Executive Committee and Board of Directors. He presented a clear financial overview and invited general membership nominations, ultimately electing Dr. Raj Aurora and Dr. Amarjit Singh as members-at-large to the Nominating Committee.
Newly elected Chairperson Dr. Samir Shah energized the audience with a vision for 2025. Citing the clinic’s 2024 achievements—serving 1,287 patients, including 327 new patients, with 671 lab services and 832 free prescriptions—he announced plans to expand operations to five days a week by July 2025. Enhancements will include a broader medication formulary (from 25 to 75 generic drugs) and expanded services in women’s health, ophthalmology, dermatology, podiatry, and mental health. He thanked Neelyx Labs and other partners, stating, “Determination and commitment to excellence will drive our success.”
Chief Guest Dr. Preeti Malani, Deputy Editor of JAMA and Professor at the University of Michigan, delivered an inspiring address on health equity. After visiting the Seva Clinic, she praised its “can-do attitude” and long-term care model, which saw 450 physician and 2,850 student volunteer hours in 2024. “Health is thriving in all aspects of life,” she said, urging ongoing support for IAMACF’s transformative work.
Dr. Nilay Shah, Assistant Professor at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, presented a compelling keynote on the MASALA study. He shared that while South Asians represent 25% of the global population, they account for 60% of heart disease cases. With heart attacks often occurring a decade earlier than in other populations, his research emphasized the need for early intervention. His team was honored with the Community Cardiovascular Research and SEVA Awards.
A highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to community leader and philanthropist Dr. Bharat Barai for over four decades of service. Sharing a personal story of his father borrowing money for malaria treatment, he called IAMACF volunteers “the brightest stars shining for others.” His wife, Dr. Panna Barai, was also recognized for her unwavering support.
IAMACF honored several individuals for their lasting contributions. Drs. Ashutosh Gupta, Rohit Vasa, Marella Hanumadass, and Brij Malani were recognized for their visionary leadership as past chairpersons from 1994 to 2000. Dr. Suneela Harsoor received the Leadership Award for her outstanding service as 2023 chairperson, which earned the clinic the Gold Seal Award from NFCC. Dr. Sukanya Reddy was honored with the Volunteer Physician Award, and Dr. Praveen Mehta received special recognition for his dedicated role as Medical Director. The Numara Foundation and Neelyx Labs also pledged ongoing support, including free lab testing in 2025.
The evening concluded with a sumptuous dinner and a show-stopping performance by Orchestra SAREGAMA, led by Shri Hitesh Master, paying tribute to 100 years of Bollywood cinema. As the final notes played, Dr. John reminded the crowd, “No amount is too big, no amount is too small”—a fitting close to a night defined by generosity and vision.
Dr. Suneela Harsoor delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging dignitaries, sponsors, and media partners who helped bring the event to life.
IAMACF’s 31st Gala was not just a celebration—it was a powerful affirmation of the community’s dedication to healthcare equity. With ambitious plans for growth and the unwavering support of its volunteers and donors, IAMACF continues to light the way toward a healthier, more equitable future.
