On May 29, during the Family Medicine Residency Graduation Ceremony held at Montreal’s Hotel Bonaventure, Rayhaan Bassawon, a recent graduate from the Gatineau University Family Medicine Group (U-FMG), was awarded the inaugural Dr. Geeta Ishwar Gupta Resilience Prize. The award recognizes a graduating resident who demonstrates exceptional resilience, academic excellence and unwavering commitment to community care in the face of systemic challenges.
Established in memory of Geeta Ishwar Gupta, a dedicated family physician at St. Mary’s Hospital Family Medicine Centre who passed away in 2024, the award celebrates a legacy defined by compassion and courage. Dr. Gupta, who immigrated to Montreal in the 1970s, overcame barriers as an immigrant woman physician and became a steadfast advocate for vulnerable patients, particularly those affected by domestic violence and youth protection concerns.
“This award isn’t just about overcoming difficulties,” said Dr. Bassawon in his acceptance remarks. “It’s about the people who believed in me, who reminded me of my purpose when things were tough. It’s also about the patients who taught me how to listen deeply.”
He added, “Resilience is essential to physicians. Our patients are in vulnerable states. To be fully present with them and still return to our own lives requires strength.”
Admired by peers and mentors alike, Dr. Bassawon is known for his quiet leadership, emotional steadiness, and thoughtful, patient-centered care. His calm presence and deep empathy have earned him widespread respect across clinical and academic settings.
Dr. Alan Pavilanis, a family physician at St. Mary’s Hospital and co-trustee of this prize, represented the Gupta family at the ceremony. He reflected on the significance of the prize. “This award honours Dr. Gupta’s legacy by recognizing those who persevere with heart, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose. It’s not just about surviving hardship, it’s about transforming it into meaningful service. Dr. Bassawon embodies that vision beautifully.”
Beyond an individual accolade, the Dr. Geeta Ishwar Gupta Resilience Prize echoes the Department of Family Medicine’s ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion and the empowerment of those who forge new paths, just as Dr. Gupta did.
As Dr. Bassawon embarks on his career in independent practice, his journey reminds us that resilience is not just the ability to endure. It is nurtured by community, shaped by shared values, and made meaningful through service to others.
Congratulations Dr. Bassawon!
Photos from the ceremony:
https://www.mcgill.ca/familymed/2025-graduation-ceremony-family-medicine-residents
