The Lifesaver of Oklahoma’s Governor, a Silent Son of the Soil Dr. Naeem Tahirkheli’s Spirit of Service and a Shining Symbol of Patriotism
By: Raja Zahid Akhtar Khanzada
Oklahoma : Neither a thirst for fame, nor a desire for awards only a selfless love for humanity and a heartfelt bond with his motherland. Dr. Naeem Tahirkheli, a Pakistani-American cardiologist, stands among those unsung heroes who, while remaining away from the limelight, continue to bring honor to Pakistan. His quiet yet impactful services are not only a priceless contribution to the American healthcare system, but also a living embodiment of Pakistan-U.S. friendship.
At the annual Spring Convention of APPNA (Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America), held in the state of Oklahoma, Governor Kevin Stitt publicly honored Dr. Khaili as he recalled a life-altering moment. The Governor shared that while playing golf one day, he suddenly felt unwell. Fortunately, Dr. Tahirkheli happened to be nearby. Realizing the severity of the situation, he immediately rushed the Governor to the hospital. Tests later revealed that 90% of the arteries in his heart were blocked. Thanks to Dr. Tahirkheli’s timely procedure, the Governor’s life was saved.
Speaking emotionally, Governor Stitt said, “Had Dr. Tahirkheli not been there at that crucial moment, I probably wouldn’t be standing on this stage today. He’s not just my physician he’s my friend, my benefactor, and a true well-wisher.” The Governor added that he affectionately calls him “Dr. T” because his full name is a bit hard to pronounce. He attended the APPNA convention on both days, and on each occasion, he spoke with admiration about Dr. Naeem Tahirkheli.
Governor Stitt also fondly recalled his meetings with Pakistani doctors and families in Oklahoma, emphasizing that Pakistani values strong family ties, work ethic, and spirituality resonate beautifully with Oklahoma’s own traditions.
He also mentioned Dr. Fazal Akbar Ali, another close friend, and shared how much he enjoyed authentic Pakistani cuisine during the convention. These deepening ties, he said, inspired him to invite the APPNA delegation to a special session at the Oklahoma State Assembly. The delegation was led by president Appna Dr. Humaira Qamar and included Dr. Hassan Kareem, Dr. Sanaullah, Dr. Kaleem, Dr. Fazal Ali , Dr. Haroon Durrani,, Dr. Hassan, and Host Committee Chairman Dr. Muhammad Sanaullah. On this occasion, members of both the Assembly and the Senate paid rich tributes to the contributions of Pakistani-American doctors.
In an exclusive conversation with Geo/Jang, further dimensions of Dr. Tahirkheli’s life and mission were revealed. Trained at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, Dr. Tahirkheli is an internationally acclaimed figure in the field of interventional cardiology. The institution he leads currently ranks second in the U.S. for performing advanced heart procedures.
His love for Pakistan takes a unique form. Every year, at his own personal expense, Dr. Tahirkheli invites 45 young doctors from Pakistan to the U.S., where they undergo a six-week clinical rotation. During this time, they are provided free training, accommodation, meals, and access to state-of-the-art cardiology practices. Under Dr. Tahirkheli’s direct supervision, these doctors complete their training at a leading cardiology hospital in Oklahoma.
Dr. Tahirkheli explains,
“This is my duty, not a favor. Since I’ve never had the chance to return to Pakistan after moving to the U.S., I decided this was the way I could repay the debt I owe to my homeland by equipping its young doctors with modern medical skills.”
He also spoke about the Rukhsana Foundation, which he established to carry out global health and humanitarian work. His dream is to see young Pakistani doctors receive world-class training and then bring revolutionary improvements to Pakistan’s healthcare system.
On this occasion, Squadron Leader Dr. Mubbara an Assistant Professor of Cardiology at a Pakistan Air Force hospital in Islamabad and one of Dr. Tahirkheli’s current trainees shared her experience:
“This isn’t just training; it’s the realization of a dream. The technology we are learning here doesn’t yet exist in Pakistan. We hope this knowledge will help us serve our people in better and more effective ways.”
She described the experience as invaluable and said Dr. Tahirkheli’s initiative will prove to be a pivotal and enduring contribution to the future of healthcare in Pakistan.
Indeed, Dr. Naeem Tahirkheli is a radiant lamp in a foreign land quietly fulfilling his bond with the soil of his homeland, without ever seeking reward or recognition.
