Eminent Indian-American doctor and group chief Ajay Lodha has handed away as a consequence of problems from COVID-19. Lodha, former president of American Affiliation of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), battled COVID for the final eight months at Cleveland Clinic and breathed his final on November 21. He was 58.
He’s survived by his spouse Smita, son Amit and daughter Shweta. The Consulate Common of India in New York tweeted: deeply saddened to study of the demise of Dr. Ajay lodha, a distinguished member of the Indian-American group. He might be in our hearts all the time. His humility, kindness and contribution to the society shall proceed to encourage us.
AAPI President Sudhakar Jonnalagadda expressed shock and unhappiness on the passing of the visionary chief and stated his loss of life is ”the darkest day in AAPI historical past. President-Elect of AAPI Dr Anupama Gotimukula stated Lodha’s heroic combat with Covid 19 epitomizes the struggles of frontline well being staff. Lodha together with different physicians of Indian origin who’ve misplaced their lives because of the pandemic ”will proceed to encourage us and AAPI endlessly.
Distinguished members of the Indian-American group additionally mourned the passing of Lodha, who was honoured with the distinguished Ellis Island Medal of Honour in 2016 and had served because the President of AAPI in 2015-16. In 2008, Lodha was honoured with the Nargis Dutt Memorial Basis Doctor of the 12 months Award. Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari expressed condolences on the passing of Lodha, who he described as an expensive pal and an ideal human being” who used to exit of his manner to assist these in want.
Condolence messages additionally got here from Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje who recalled Lodha’s immense contribution to the diaspora, particularly the Rajasthani group, within the US. Former Director-Common, Border Safety Power, Okay Okay Sharma stated Lodha was not solely a proficient physician but additionally an essential functionary of Rajasthan Affiliation of North America. He was all the time prepared to assist others and might be fondly remembered. Describing him as an expensive pal and brave soul, Vice President of AAPI Dr. Ravi Kolli stated Lodha was a ”man of ardour, integrity, dedication and generosity. He fought until finish with nice valour befitting of a warrior. His dedication to AAPI household was unprecedented.
Lodha was the previous president of Rajasthan Affiliation of North America and Rajasthan Medical Alumni Affiliation and Director of Analysis Division at Flushing Hospital, New York. An internist by occupation, Lodha had accomplished his residency on the Flushing Hospital and was the founder and president of Queens Medical Providers, a main care follow.
