2013 Gala Commemorative Journal | Page 13

Celebrating the Creativity of our Youth As one of many who were blessed to have Dr. Gary Rachlin as an internist for over 18 years, I benefited immensely from knowing such a kind, caring and dedicated human-being who made it his business to connect with each and every one of his patients in a special way. It was therefore incumbent upon me to nominate him for a posthumous award at the first Fundraising Gala of the non-profit organization I founded. Having said this, it should come as no surprise that Dr. Rachlin - this ultimate healer of the body and spirit of all his patients-was the first to make a contribution towards my efforts at organizing an annual community service initiative, a Self-Empowering Workshop for College-Bound Students and their Parents" in 2012. This program is now being offered by Your Time For Creative Empowerment, Inc. I, along with the rest of his patients, will never forget the way he handled his job with a passion and a readily-available smile, second to none. He was never too busy to register interest in the holistic wellbeing of his patients. His children have much to be proud of and to emulate as part of the healing process of this great loss. The following sentiments will serve to bear witness to the true inimitable spirit of Dr. Gary L. Rachlin. January 19th, 1964 - November 23rd, (Courtesy Star of David Jewish Funeral Home - jewish-funeral-home.com/ funeral-home-service-schedule-detail.php?id...) -Madona Cole-LacyNov 25, 2012 07:53 PM - “I only knew Dr. Rachlin for a short time, but in those few months he made quite an impression. As a medical student rotating through his practice, I saw first-hand the incredible amount of trust he instilled in his patients. He always did so with great enthusiasm and an effortless smile. His tireless work ethic and dedication to patient care should serve as a model to all physicians, both current and future. In addition, Dr. Rachlin was equally committed to medical education, serving as the beloved director of the family medicine residency program at Plainview Hospital. On a more personal note, Dr. Rachlin was somewhat of a mentor to me, taking time out of his busy schedule to offer advice when I needed it most. That conversation will leave a lasting impact on me as I move forward in my career. I looked very much forward to working as a resident under Dr. Rachlin next year. My deepest condolences go out to the Rachlin family, and all of those who knew Dr. Rachlin well. This is a tremendous loss. Far too soon.” -Scott SosinNov 25, 2012 04:43 PM Dr. Gary Rachlin was the kindest, most caring & compassionate man & Dr. I have ever had the privilege to know. He took care of my husband, Mr. Tarnaras for 16 yrs, our daughter Vasso, and myself & our daughter Stacey. He came to our home & spent hours with my husband, who passed the following morning. We are devastated to hear of his passing. He will remain in our hearts & prayers always. Our deepest sympathies to his family and colleagues. All our Love. Helen, Vasso & Stacey Tarnaras Obituary Plainview Hospital is deeply saddened to announce the loss of our colleague and friend, Dr. Gary Rachlin on November 23rd, 2012. He was laid to rest on November 25th, 2012 at the Beth Moses Cemetery. Dr. Rachlin was, from 2001 the Director of Medical Education and from 2002 also the director of the Family Practice Residency Program at Plainview Hospital. He was a graduate of the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at Peninsula Hospital. Along with his many accomplishments, Gary was the two time recipient of the NYCOM “Teaching in Excellence” award. He leaves behind 2 children, family and countless friends. His smile, charm and compassion will be truly missed. Contributions in memory of Gary Rachlin may be sent to FAAN: The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network at www.foodallergy.org www.yourtimeforcreativeempowerment.org (516) 783-9178