Dr. Satheesh Kathula, serving as the president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), received the Healthcare & Science Leadership Award during the annual awards gala organized by the Raising Awareness of Youth with Autism (RAYWA) Foundation. This prestigious event took place on December 14 at The Taj Pierre Hotel and was dedicated to honoring notable achievements within the community while underscoring the significance of neurodiversity and the need for increased awareness regarding young women and youth affected by autism. At the gala, Dr. Kathula expressed his admiration for the contributions of Mani Kamboj and Dr. Rashmi Sharma, acknowledging their relentless commitment to promoting autism awareness. He shared his empathy for the challenges faced by parents of autistic children, recounting a recent conversation with a parent that left a profound impact on him.
“It is truly inspirational that you guys are really helping them. Thank you for doing such incredible work,” he remarked, highlighting their vital role in supporting the autism community. In a heartfelt moment, he dedicated his award to his parents, family, and patients, emphasizing that their encouragement motivates him to strive for greater achievements. He urged others to find inspiration in their surroundings, stating, “Inspiration comes from all sources—nature, art, and the people around us. The best way to inspire people is by getting inspired by others. So, keep getting inspired and keep inspiring.” The RAYWA Foundation has been celebrating its gala for over twenty years, honoring individuals who motivate others through their outstanding contributions in various fields. This year’s event reaffirmed the Foundation’s ongoing dedication to promoting neurodiversity and raising awareness about the specific needs of youth with autism.
