Nirmal Surya, MD, DNB, FIAN, FRCP

Epilepsy Foundation India

Mumbai, India

WHY THE RECIPIENT WAS CHOSEN: The Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Patient Advocacy Award recognizes one neurologist who exemplifies Dr. Viste’s leadership and commitment to advocating for the patient community. Dr. Nirmal Surya has dedicated his career to epilepsy patients in India, offering free weekly clinics and Epilepsy Camps to those below the poverty line across the country. Dr. Surya also founded the Epilepsy Foundation of India and is an active advocate for patients at the state and national government.

THANK YOU STATEMENT: It is indeed an honor to be selected as the recipient of this prestigious award! I deeply thank Dr. Sanjay P. Singh and Dr. Vinita Acharya who nominated me for this award. Thank you to my parents for their support, encouragement, and guidance, and for lighting the lamp of patient service very early in my life. And thank you to all my patients who have kept their faith in me, followed all advice given to them, and supported all my efforts over the years.