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Blog post by Dr. Neena Thomas

It is a true privilege to celebrate a pillar of our medical community—Prof. Roy Varghese, an esteemed, longstanding AKMG member and proud alumnus of Trivandrum Medical College. For many years, Dr. Varghese has served as Chief of Staff in the Department of Medicine at Mary Breckinridge Hospital in Hyden, Kentucky. In his roles overseeing General Medicine and Infectious Diseases, he has been far more than a department head: he has been a beacon of hope, opportunity, and guidance for scores of young doctors navigating their way into the American healthcare system. For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), breaking into the U.S. healthcare system can feel like an uphill battle fraught with uncertainty. Dr. Varghese recognized this challenge and chose to take action. Under his direct tutelage, more than 50 Kerala medical graduates served as externs, taking active, hands-on roles in patient care. His program offered young doctors an invaluable, first-hand look into the intricacies of U....

My Jungle Garden: Blog post by Dr. Rosalind Pallivathucal

Every morning, I walk into my garden with a cup of coffee, and my roses remind me of one thing—nothing beautiful comes easy. People think growing roses is simple. It's not. Roses need patience, attention, and sometimes a little stubbornness. Maybe that's why I like them. Now, if you ask my daughters, Leena and Letha in Irvine, they'll tell you they love their mother. They'll proudly say, "Our mom is a hardworking doctor." But ask them about my garden, and immediately they'll say, "Amma, this is not a garden... this is a jungle!" Apparently, because I don't believe every plant has to stand in a military parade, my garden has lost all respectability. According to them, a proper California garden should have neat rows, perfect lawns, and not a banana tree waving at the roses. But here's the funny part. While my own children tease me, complete strangers stop outside to admire the garden. Some even ask if they can take pictur...

AKMG NEW JERSEY

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AKMG Mid-Atlantic chapter

Nigil and I had the privilege of spending a night at the dreamy Mid-Atlantic home of our dear friends, Dr. Shaija Kutty and Dr. Shelby Kutty — an immigrant abode filled with art, warmth, hospitality, and stories. Every corner carried a personal touch: large custom rugs designed by their daughter, indoor plants lovingly arranged along windowsills and quiet corners, European-style glass chandeliers, and shelves lined with fantasy, fiction, and many other treasured books. Even the ride to the airport in their electric SUV became part of the experience — gentle and thoughtful.They welcomed us with several rounds of chai and a delicious Mallu breakfast of appam, idiyappam, chicken stew, and egg roast. For a brief moment, it felt as though Kerala had quietly travelled with us to Washington. The night before, we attended the official launch of the AKMG Mid-Atlantic Chapter, started under the leadership of Dr. Shelby Kutty, at Bombay Tandoor. It was a gathering that carried both celebratio...

From Tampa to Timeless Japan: A Journey Through Culture, Speed, and Soul Easter 2026

Reena Kavilaveettil MD Traveling with Family and Friends from Tampa Brown Bears I. Arrival — Tokyo in Full Bloom Our journey began in Tampa, with excitement packed tighter than our suitcases. As the plane lifted into the early morning sky on Easter Day, we left behind the familiar warmth of home, heading toward a land where tradition and technology coexist in perfect harmony — Tokyo. Tokyo welcomed us not just with its dazzling lights, but with a rare gift: cherry blossoms in full bloom. Walking through Ueno Park, we found ourselves beneath a canopy of soft pink sakura petals. The air felt lighter, almost magical, as families gathered, laughter echoed, and petals fell gently like nature's own confetti. We felt incredibly fortunate to witness the fleeting beauty of sakura — Japan's most poetic season. II. Temples, Palaces, and the Soul of the City Our Tokyo tour began at the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled within a beautifully forested area that honors Emperor Meiji — th...

Sharing is Caring: AKMG Florida’s Heartwarming Holiday Giving Gathering

This holiday season, the spirit of community and compassion took center stage as AKMG Florida hosted its Holiday Giving Gathering on January 4th in Lutz. It was an afternoon filled with warmth, delicious homemade treats, and a collective mission to support survivors of domestic violence. The event was dedicated to supporting The Spring of Tampa Bay, an organization providing vital safe spaces and empowering services to survivors and their children. Our members showed incredible generosity, fulfilling needs from the organization’s Amazon list and donating essential items—from usable phones and blankets to furniture and clothing. Whether members attended in person or contributed from afar—stretching from Tallahassee to Fort Lauderdale—the response was overwhelmingly positive. All collected items were delivered to the organization on January 12th, ensuring a bright start to the new year for many families. The gathering wasn't just about giving; it was about connection. Attendee...