Dr. Neeraj and Avani Desai: A Force for Healthcare

Neeraj Desai, MD, and Avani M. Desai have been active donors, volunteers and advocates of Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies for nearly a decade. Since 2012, Dr. Desai has been a part of Orlando Health Winnie Palmer’s Maternal-Fetal Medicine division, working closely with community obstetricians to deliver the highest quality care to women during their pregnancy. Avani is a leader in her field, serving as the President of Tampa-based Schellman & Company, LLC – in 2018, she was the only minority head of a “Top 100” CPA firm, and one of only a handful of female leaders. 

Dr. Desai and Avani are steadfast champions of our mission and both remain active in helping to connect and engage others in our work. The couple’s values are rooted in philanthropy, raising their young children to lean-in to the power of giving back. In fact, their son, Sahil, at only 11 years old, shares, “I feel lucky that I have been healthy, but I know not all kids are as lucky as me, my sister, and baby brother. I want to make sure that I can help them any way I can.” 

Avani, a member of the Orlando Health Children’s Foundation Board, has hosted and co-hosted multiple events on our behalf – from family-friendly activities to social, in-home fundraisers. Through each effort, Avani has shared her personal passion for our mission, encouraging friends and peers to also consider giving back and volunteering with Orlando Health. Through her persistent advocacy, she has aided us in raising needed funds and support, helping our healthcare organization provide the best care possible to local children and families. 

Together, the Desai’s personal and professional commitment to support our mission is exemplary. 

A LEGACY OF GENEROSITY 

Most recently, Avani and Neeraj have stepped forward with a commitment to support a soon-to-be-announced high-priority project at Orlando Health. 

The Desai’s are building a legacy of generosity that is already serving as an example to their three children, as well as others. As ambassadors for our mission, and members of the Champions Circle at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer, they exemplify what it truly means to be an advocate for change.