Oak Brook, IL – The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the largest organization representing physicians of Indian heritage in the United States, has launched an urgent humanitarian appeal to support victims of the recent disaster in Nepal, where widespread devastation has left families displaced and communities struggling to meet their most basic needs.
The disaster has created an immediate demand for medical care, food, shelter, clean water, and essential supplies. As recovery efforts continue, AAPI is mobilizing its nationwide network of physicians, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to provide support for relief and rehabilitation initiatives aimed at helping affected populations rebuild their lives.
In a heartfelt appeal, Dr. Meher Medavaram, President of AAPI, emphasized that the responsibilities of physicians extend beyond clinical practice and into service during times of humanitarian crisis.
“At times like these, our strength as physicians extends beyond the walls of our clinics and hospitals. It is our compassion and our willingness to stand with those in need that define us.”
Dr. Medavaram called upon AAPI’s members and friends to contribute generously to the Nepal Disaster Relief Fund, noting that every donation can provide critical assistance to families facing extraordinary hardship. According to AAPI leadership, immediate support is needed to address urgent humanitarian concerns and help communities begin the long process of recovery.
A Legacy of Service During Times of Crisis
According to Dr. Vijay Maurya, Chair, Board of Trustees, “The appeal for Nepal builds upon AAPI’s longstanding tradition of responding to humanitarian emergencies around the world. Over the years, the organization and its members have mobilized resources, medical expertise, and financial assistance to support communities affected by natural disasters, public health emergencies, and other humanitarian crises.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, AAPI coordinated efforts to provide medical supplies, public health education, telehealth support, and fundraising assistance for healthcare institutions and vulnerable populations in both the United States and India. The organization played a visible role in supporting frontline healthcare workers and advocating for access to lifesaving resources during one of the most challenging public health crises in modern history.
AAPI has also supported relief initiatives following major natural disasters, including earthquake, flood, and hurricane-related emergencies affecting communities in South Asia and elsewhere. Through partnerships with local organizations, physician volunteers, and charitable foundations, AAPI members have helped deliver medical assistance, essential supplies, and financial aid to affected populations.
Reflecting on this legacy of service, Dr. Meher Medavaram noted that the organization’s response to Nepal is part of a broader commitment to humanitarian action. “AAPI has always responded when humanity calls. Today, Nepal needs us.”
She emphasized that the Nepal relief effort represents not only an opportunity to provide immediate assistance but also a reaffirmation of the values that have guided AAPI since its founding: compassion, service, and community leadership
AAPI has also played a significant role in mobilizing physicians and community resources during public health emergencies and international relief efforts, reinforcing its mission of improving lives through compassion and action.
“Through collective generosity and action, AAPI hopes to bring relief to affected families, support rebuilding efforts, and restore hope to communities facing immense challenges,” said Dr. Krishan Kumar, President-Elect of AAPI.
A Call for Collective Action
AAPI leadership believes that the Nepal disaster represents an opportunity for physicians and healthcare professionals to unite around a common humanitarian purpose. The organization’s appeal encourages members, families, friends, and healthcare colleagues to contribute whatever they can to support relief operations and recovery efforts.
“AAPI is encouraging its members, families, friends, and colleagues to participate in the relief campaign and contribute toward restoring hope, healing communities, and helping Nepal recover from this devastating tragedy,” said Dr. Srini Gangasani, Vice President of AAPI.
“The Nepal Disaster Relief Appeal serves as a reminder that medicine is not only a profession but also a commitment to humanity. As affected communities struggle to rebuild their lives,” added Dr. Soumya Neravetla, Secretary of AAPI.
“AAPI’s leadership is urging physicians and supporters across the globe to stand together in compassion and service, embodying the organization’s enduring values of healing, generosity, and global responsibility,” said Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, Treasurer of AAPI.
As Nepal works to recover from this tragedy, AAPI’s appeal serves as a reminder that medicine is not only a profession but also a humanitarian calling.
Dr. Medavaram urged the AAPI community to demonstrate the values that have long defined the organization.
“Let us come together as one AAPI family and demonstrate the power of compassion, service, and collective action.”
About AAPI
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) is a national professional organization representing physicians of Indian origin practicing in the United States. Through advocacy, education, community service, healthcare initiatives, and humanitarian outreach, AAPI promotes excellence in medicine while supporting efforts to improve health and well-being around the world. For more details, please visit: www.aapiusa.org
