Okalahoma: neither a renowned thirst nor a desire for awards, only a selfless love for humanity and a sincere bond with his homeland. Dr. Naeem Tahirkheli, an American Pakistani cardiologist, is one of the little -known heroes who, while remaining far from the spotlight, continue to honor Pakistan.
Its silent but impactful services are not only an invaluable contribution to the American health system, but also a living embodiment of Pakistani-American friendship.
During the Annual Printemps of Appna (Association of Doctors of Pakistani origin of North America), held in the state of Oklahoma, Governor Kevin Stitt publicly honored Dr. Khaili when he remembers a moment that changes his life.
The governor shared that one day playing golf, he suddenly felt bad. Fortunately, Dr. Tahirkheli was nearby. Carrying out the severity of the situation, he immediately precipitated the governor in the hospital.
The tests later revealed that 90% of the arteries in his heart were blocked. Thanks to Dr. Tahirkheli’s right procedure, the Governor’s life was saved.
Speaking emotionally, Governor Stitt said: “If Dr. Tahirkheli had not been there at this crucial moment, I would probably not be on this scene today. It is not only my doctor, he is my friend, my benefactor and a real benefit.”
The governor added that he affectionately calls him “Dr. T” because his full name is a little difficult to pronounce. He attended the appna convention on the two days, and on every occasion, he spoke with admiration of Dr Tahirkheli.
Governor Stitt also recalled his meetings with doctors and Pakistani families in Oklahoma, stressing that the Pakistanis appreciate strong family ties, work ethics and spirituality resonate magnificently with the own traditions of Oklahoma.
He also mentioned Dr. Fazal Akbar Ali, another close friend, and shared how much he appreciated the authentic Pakistani cuisine during the convention. These in-depth links, he said, inspired him to invite the delegation of Appna to a special session to the Assembly of Oklahoma State. The delegation was led by President Appna, Dr. Humaira Qamar and included Dr. Hassan Kareem, Dr. Sanaullah, Dr. Kaleem, Dr. Fazal Ali, Dr. Haroon Durrani, Dr. Hassan and the president of the host committee, Dr. Muhammad Sanaullah. On this occasion, the members of the Assembly and the Senate paid tributes rich to the contributions of American Pakistani doctors.
In an exclusive conversation with Geo NewsOther dimensions of Dr. Tahirkheli’s life and mission have been revealed. Trained at the world -renowned Mayo Clinic, Dr. Tahirkheli is an internationally renowned figure in the field of interventional cardiology.
The institution he directs is currently ranking second in the United States for carrying out advanced heart procedures.
His love for Pakistan takes on a unique form. Each year, at his personal expenses, Dr. Tahirkheli invites 45 young doctors from Pakistan to the United States, where they undergo a clinical rotation of six weeks. Meanwhile, they receive free training, accommodation, meals and access to advanced cardiology practices. According to Dr. Tahirkheli’s direct supervision, these doctors follow their training in a first Oklahoma cardiology hospital.
Dr. Tahirkheli explains: “It’s my duty, not a favor. As I have never had the chance to return to Pakistan after having moved to the United States, I decided that it was the way I could repay the debt I owe to my homeland by equipping its young doctors with modern medical skills.”
He also talked about the Rukhsana Foundation, which he created to carry out global health and humanitarian work. His dream is to see the young Pakistani doctors receiving world class training, then making revolutionary improvements to the Pakistan health system.
On this occasion, the squadron chief Dr Mubbara, assistant professor of cardiology, in an Air Force Pakistani hospital in Islamabad and one of the current interns of Dr Tahirkheli, shared his experience: “It is not only training; we hope that this knowledge will help us to serve our people in the best ways and more effective.”
She described experience as invaluable and said that Dr. Tahirkheli’s initiative will prove to be a central and sustainable contribution to the future of health care in Pakistan.
Indeed, Dr. Tahirkheli is a radiant lamp in a foreign country quietly filling his link with the soil of his homeland, without ever asking for a reward or recognition.