A speech by Dr. Basheer AhmedA Life of Service: Dr. Basheer Ahmed’s Legacy at 90
On the occasion of my 90th birthday and retirement, I would like to reflect not only on the milestones of my life but also on the purpose that has guided it.
From my beginnings in Hyderabad, to medical school in Karachi, to psychiatric training in the UK and service in the U.S., I’ve always believed that a meaningful life is one lived in service of others. While faith provides us with rituals and rules, it is through compassion, community, and contribution that we fulfill our highest purpose.
In my 50s, I shifted my medical focus to geriatric psychiatry, helping older adults navigate aging with dignity and purpose. I advised patients to stay active and give back to society—to volunteer, to teach, to mentor—because inactivity leads to decline. That advice, I took to heart myself.
At nearly 60, I asked the deeper question: Why are we here? Religion teaches us to worship God and follow His guidance. But to me, this means using our intelligence and talents to uplift Humanity. Rituals connect us to the Divine, but service connects us to each other. That, I believe, is the true essence of faith.
In the mid-90s, as refugees from Bosnia, Iraq, and Somalia arrived in the U.S., I realized there was no Muslim institution in Texas offering them the help they desperately needed. With a few dedicated individuals, we founded MCC for Human Services—the first Muslim-led charitable clinic in the state.
From modest beginnings, MCC has grown to serve thousands with medical, dental, mental health, and social services. We’ve helped patients who had gone years without care. Some came back years later—as volunteers—saying, “Now it’s my turn to give back.” That spirit continues to define MCC.
We also supported young students exploring careers in healthcare, international physicians seeking residencies, and retired doctors who found joy in volunteering. Together, we didn’t just offer care—we built dignity, trust, and a sense of community.
None of this would have been possible without you—our volunteers, donors, and staff. You stepped up, time and again, including during our financial crisis in 2023, when we were on the brink of shutting down. Your generosity saved us.
Today, I’m proud to leave MCC in the hands of the next generation—my son Sameer and a compassionate, visionary board. They will take MCC to new heights—with telemedicine, expanded mental health services, and mobile outreach.
Now in my 90s, I’ve begun a new mission. Our young Muslim students often lack awareness of the rich contributions Muslims have made to world civilization. I began writing a 20-book series to highlight Muslim scientists and scholars—from the 7th to 15th centuries—who laid the foundations for modern science through their works.
My first book, on Ibn Sina (Avicenna), is now available. If my health permits, I’ll continue the series. I encourage every parent to make these books available to their children to instill pride, knowledge, and a sense of identity.
So, what’s the secret to living a long life?
Have a purpose. Serve others. Stay hopeful. Avoid unnecessary arguments—especially with your doctor and your spouse! And above all, never give up.
As I stand here—still upright, still speaking, and still full of hope—I thank you all. Thank you for walking this journey with me.
May Allah bless you all. And may the next generation continue this mission of mercy, service, and love.
—Dr. Basheer Ahmed
Founder, MCC for Human Services