Dr. Mandakini & Dr. Prakash Amte to Be Honored with the ‘Gondan Puraskar’ by AIBDF
Pune: The Auto-Immune Blistering Disease Foundation (AIBDF), an organization providing financial assistance for the treatment of autoimmune skin diseases, has announced the ‘Gondan Puraskar’ for renowned doctors and social workers Dr. Mandakini and Dr. Prakash Amte. Additionally, an interactive interview with the Amte couple has been organized, as announced by AIBDF’s founder, Ashokkumar Suratwala, in a press conference. Present at the event were AIBDF trustees Dr. Sharad Mutalik, Aniruddha Bambawale, Jayant Hemade, and other dignitaries.
Ashokkumar Suratwala stated, “The first-ever ‘Gondan Puraskar’ will be presented to the Amte couple by senior environmental scientist Dr. Madhav Gadgil. The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Deccan Club House, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune. Following the award presentation, renowned anchor Pravin Joshi will conduct an interactive interview with Dr. Mandakini and Dr. Prakash Amte. The event will witness the presence of eminent personalities from various fields.”
Dr. Sharad Mutalik emphasized the significance of spreading awareness about skin diseases, stating, “Even today, society looks down upon skin diseases, making life challenging for those affected. Patients not only battle medical issues but also face financial and social hardships. In such cases, raising awareness and assisting individuals suffering from autoimmune blistering diseases is crucial.”
He further explained that the foundation operates with key objectives, including: Raising awareness about autoimmune blistering diseases among the public. Many people mistakenly assume that all blisters and ulcers are common and fail to seek appropriate medical attention, Providing early diagnosis and the right treatment guidance, Offering financial assistance to patients who cannot afford treatment, Establishing support groups where recovered patients can share their experiences, guide, and encourage others to pursue advanced treatments & Ensuring accessibility and affordability of breakthrough treatments such as biologics.
Aniruddha Bambawale mentioned that AIBDF is a joint initiative inspired by Ashokkumar Suratwala and Dr. Sharad Mutalik, an internationally renowned dermatologist. He also urged patients to seek help, stating, “Individuals suffering from skin irritation, blisters, or ulcers should feel free to contact the foundation. We help ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. If the symptoms indicate bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus, or other autoimmune blistering diseases, we guide patients toward the right medical care.
