Gargi Pahuja Will Be Honored by America’s Blood Centers
March 6, 2013 – Gargi Pahuja, a valued and respected leader in the thalassemia community who passed away last summer, will be honored as Volunteer of the Year by America’s Blood Centers at the organization’s Annual Awards of Excellence Banquet on March 18.
Gargi, who was a long time member of the CAF Board, a former President of TAG (Thalassemia Action Group), a former Patient Services Director for CAF, and a former Board member of TIF (Thalassaemia International Federation), was a tireless advocate on behalf of all those affected by thalassemia. Upon her passing, CAF National Executive Director Gina Cioffi commented that “Gargi was the most provocative and productive advocate that I have ever known. She did everything to make life better for people with thalassemia.” CAF National President Anthony J. Viola stated that “she was a remarkable human being who always went above and beyond the call of duty in giving of herself, her knowledge and her experience.”
Each year, America’s Blood Centers honors the nation’s top organizations and individuals for promoting volunteer blood donation and awareness of the everyday need for blood. Corporations, civic groups, media and individuals receive acclaim for saving lives through blood donation and for supporting non-profit, community-based blood programs at the Awards of Excellence ceremony that takes place at the organization’s annual meeting.
CAF applauds this well-deserved recognition of the work of one of the thalassemia community’s most respected and cherished members.
(Click here if you would like to read some of the memories of Gargi offered in response to her passing last year.)