Healing Hearts, Building Futures: IAMACF’s 31st Gala Shines Bright

Vision to Victory: IAMACF’s 31st Gala Ignites Hope for the Underserved

Bright Stars, Big Hearts: IAMACF’s 31st Gala Lights Up Lives

 

 

Chicago, IL: The Indian American Medical Association Charitable Foundation (IAMACF) transformed the Waterford Banquet Hall into a hub of compassion and community during its 31st Annual Fundraising Gala 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 united to raise funds for the Seva Community Health Clinic, a vital resource for underserved communities.

 Special guests included AAPI President-Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Mrs. Rajul Bhalala- The President of Chinmaya Mission Chicago, Mr. Sunil Shah-Founding President of FIA, Dr. Piyush Vyas-ISMS President, Padma Shri Dr. Bharat Barai, Dr. Arvind Goyal -Executive Medical director of Illinois State Health and Family Services. The evening was filled with inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and a nostalgic Bollywood musical journey, celebrated IAMACF’s mission to deliver free, high-quality healthcare.

 

The Gala began with a vibrant social hour, where exhibitors showcased healthcare innovations and attendees connected, fostering a sense of unity. Dr. Annita John & Dr. Rajan shah guided the evening with warmth and charisma as the Master of Ceremony. The National Anthems, sung by past IAMA presidents Dr. Radhika Chimata and Dr. Samir Shah, set a patriotic tone, uniting the diverse audience in shared purpose.

 

Dr. Dilip Shah, the 43rd President of the Indian American Medical Association (IAMA-IL), opened the program with a heartfelt address. Dr. Shah emphasized the clinic’s role as a lifeline since 1994. Quoting Mother Teresa, he urged, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving,” rallying attendees to meet the $220,000 fundraising goal to expand clinic operations.

 

Dr. Rajeev Kumar, IAMA-IL Secretary, led the semi-annual business meeting, introducing the 2025 Executive Committee and Board of Directors. He shared a transparent financial overview, Dr. Kumar invited nominations from general membership to elect Dr. Raj Aurora and Dr. Amarjit Singh as members-at-large, for the Nominating Committee.

 

Dr. Samir Shah, the newly elected Chairperson and dynamic leader welcomed the audience and   outlined ambitious goals for 2025 for the free clinic. Highlighting the clinic’s 2024 impact serving 1,287 patients, including 327 new patients, with 671 lab services and 832 free prescriptions he announced plans to expand to five days a week by July 2025, increase the medication formulary from 25 to 75 generics, and enhance services in women’s health, ophthalmology, dermatology, podiatry, and mental health. He thanked partners like Neelyx Labs for their generous support, emphasizing, “Determination and commitment to excellence will drive our success.”

 

The Chief Guest, Dr. Preeti Malani, Deputy Editor of JAMA and Professor at the University of Michigan, inspired the audience with her reflections on health equity. After visiting the “SEVA”  Clinic, she praised its “can-do attitude” and longitudinal 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 continued support for IAMACF’s transformative work.

 

Dr. Nilay Shah, Assistant Professor at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, delivered a compelling keynote on the MASALA study, revealing that South Asians, 25% of the global population, account for 60% of heart disease patients, with heart attacks striking a decade earlier than in other groups. His research showed South Asians store excess fat in organs even at normal weight, increasing diabetes and hypertension risks. Dr. Shah’s second-generation study highlighted the need for early intervention, earning the MASALA team a Community Cardiovascular Research and “SEVA” Award.

 

Dr. Bharat Barai, a community leader, champion of community service and philanthropist was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his four-decade career. Sharing a childhood story of his father borrowing money for his malaria treatment, Dr. Barai called IAMACF’s volunteers “the brightest stars shining for others.” He advocated for preventive medicine and telemedicine to extend care globally, with his wife, Dr. Panna Barai, recognized for her support.

 

IAMACF recognized pioneers and pillars of IAMA Charitable Clinic , Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Dr. Rohit Vasa, Dr. Marella Hanumadass, and Dr. Brij Malani for their vision, leadership and providing service as chairperson from 1994-2000.  Dr. Suneela Harsoor received the Leadership Award for outstanding services and hard work  as chairperson of IAMA-CF in 2023 earning the Gold seal award from NFCC. Dr. Sukanya Reddy received volunteer physician award and Dr. Dr. Praveen Mehta for his hardwork and selfless contribution as the Medical Director of the Clinic. The Numara Foundation, and Neelyx Labs, with Dr. Ram Saladi and Sham Saladi pledging free lab testing for 2025.

 

The evening concluded with a delicious dinner and a captivating performance by Orchestra SAREGAMA, led by Shri Hitesh Master, celebrating 100 years of Bollywood Cinema. The event was very successful, enjoyable and finished intime. Dr. John’s call- “No amount is too big, no amount is too small”—inspired generosity.

 

Dr. Suneela Harsoor delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging dignitaries, sponsors, and media partners.

 

“This event showcased IAMACF’s dedication to healthcare equity, uniting brilliance and compassion. The 31st IAMA-CF Gala was a testament to community and compassion. With plans to expand services, the generosity displayed on April 26, 2025, ensures a healthier, more equitable future for the underserved. We are honoured to amplify this mission.” said Mr. Suresh Bodiwala, Founder and Chairman of Asian Media USA. capturing the precious moments to cherish these memories forever.