Monmouth and Ocean County physicians of Indian origin in New Jersey, raised around $ 140,000 at a sold-out gala to support the Breast Cancer Research foundation.

The Monmouth and Ocean County chapter of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (MOCAAPI) hosted its annual charitable gala on Friday, April 26, 2025, at the Sheraton Eatontown Hotel. Themed “A Night of Pink and Hope,” the sold-out event brought together over 250 guests for an evening of celebration, awareness, and philanthropy, a press release from MOCAAPI said.

According to MOCAAPI President Dr. Rekha Gohel, the funds raised have been donated to the ‘Making Strides Against Breast Cancer’ initiative under the American Cancer Society dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients and advancing research.

Dr. Gohel, the first woman president of MOCAAPI, expressed deep gratitude for the support of her leadership team, including Vice President Dr. Hemangini Shah, Secretary Dr. Manish Saini, and Treasurer Dr. Abha Ojha Kathuria and the entire executive committee.

At the event, Assemblywoman Dr. Margie Donlon, presented a joint legislative resolution to Dr. Gohel, honoring her historic leadership role as first female president and commending MOCAAPI’s charitable impact.

The distinguished guests included Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media.

Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan issued a letter praising MOCAAPI’s ongoing efforts to uplift the community and recognizing the impact of Indian American physicians in the region.

A cocktail hour jumpstarted the event, which was followed by a national anthem and a welcome speech by Vice President of MOCAAPI Dr. Hemangini Shah.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Gohel welcomed guests and went on to reflect on the history of MOCAAPI which was founded in 2003 by a small group of visionary physicians. She also dwelt on the organization’s ongoing mission to serve and uplift local communities.

She emphasized that the goal of the gala is to bring together physicians from Monmouth and Ocean counties, celebrate the community’s rich and diverse culture, and make a meaningful impact by raising funds for local charities.

Over the years, MOCAAPI has raised more than $500,000 for various local charities.

The 2025 gala featured a fashion show directed by  Samina Mughal, where breast cancer survivors proudly walked the runway, in a display of their strength, resilience and  beauty.

Guests also enjoyed a cultural dance performance by Nritya Creations Academy of Dance.

The evening included a special recognition of Dr. Sripad Dhawlikar, who received a plaque for his dedication and long-standing contributions to MOCAAPI, presented in the presence of several past MOCAAPI presidents.

Immediate past president Dr. Sanjay Kumar was also recognized.

(Used under special arrangement with NIT)

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