The recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey has caused widespread devastation, leaving thousands dead and much more injured or homeless.
The New Jersey State AAPI Charitable Foundation and four physicians Dr Binod Sinha, Dr Hemant Patel, Dr Kishore Ratkalkar and Dr Raj Bhayani led the efforts to help the victims of this disaster. On February 24, 2023, a fundraiser was held at King Palace, New Jersey, and a record 213,000 dollars were raised.
The event was a grand success and was graced by the presence of Ambassador of Turkey Murat Mercan and Consul General of Turkey Rehan Ozgur. During his comments, Ambassador said, “This is a one-of-a-kind event, and appreciate the organizers from the bottom of my heart for this humanitarian gesture.”
Turkish doctor Dr Vedat Obuz gave an excellent presentation on the current situation in Turkey and Syrian doctor Dr Haythem Albizem, founder, Global Justice updated on the grave situation in Syria.
Rakesh Jain of Mobility Ideal Healthcare committed $150,000 worth of prostheses, and National AAPI President Dr Ravi Koli donated $5,000 as a partner of the event. More than 120 guests attended the event and donated generously.
JFK/HMH representatives, President Chief Hospital Executive Amie Thornton, JFK University Hospital VP Operation Jaikumar Sreekanth, JFK university Hospital Regional Chief of Surgery HMH Dr Faiz Bohra, Foundation Executive Director JFK University Hospital Sheri Marino and Frank Babar JFK University Foundation board member attended the event and announced a stronger collaboration with New Jersey State AAPI.
Organizers are still getting the checks and they appeal you to join the efforts to help victims of Turkey and Syria. This event being one of its kind in USA, Turkish and Syrian communities has developed a great sense of gratitude towards the Indian community for this great humanitarian gesture, as expressed by many in attendance. Organizers will soon be meeting the Ambassador of Turkey to present the donation check.
