Norman B. Gaylis, MD, Honored by the Foundation
Dr. Gaylis recognized for transformative contribution to Rheumatology Research Foundation
November 9, 2015
ATLANTA – Norman B. Gaylis, MD, rheumatologist at Arthritis & Rheumatic Disease Specialties in Aventura, Fla., was recently inducted into the Rheumatology Research Foundation’s Honorary Board of Advisors. The honor is reserved for individuals who have made a transformative contribution, either through monetary support and/or act of leadership, which made an indelible mark on the Foundation’s future fundraising success.
Dr. Gaylis is the first practicing rheumatologist to make a $1 million commitment to the Foundation. His contribution established the Norman B. Gaylis, MD, Research Award for Rheumatologists in Community Practice, which supports rheumatologists in community-based practices who, in addition to their active patient care, want to test their own observations and ideas through innovative research. Joanne Sagliani, clinical research administrator at Arthritis & Rheumatic Disease Specialties, explains, "The research patients in these trials have such an opportunity, because they are testing the latest generation of medications to come out.”
Dr. Gaylis wants the award to benefit patients who suffer from rheumatic diseases by stimulating new thought and creativity and attract unsung heroes in rheumatology. Mary Wheatley, Executive Director of the Rheumatology Research Foundation, says, “We are honored to induct Dr. Gaylis into this very special group. He has made an extraordinary impact on the Foundation and its work to improve the health of people living with rheumatic disease. His award is unique in that it allows practicing rheumatologists – those who have developed strong relationships with their patients – an opportunity to study trends and patterns that might not be visible to investigators in a lab. With funding from the Norman B. Gaylis, MD, Research Award for Rheumatologists in Community Practice, practicing rheumatologists can make discoveries that lead to future treatments and cures.”
Dr. Gaylis is an active supporter of the Rheumatology Research Foundation and has served as an ambassador for the Campaign Leadership Council. He is recognized as one of the country’s leaders in the field of rheumatology, practicing medicine in the greater Miami area for more than 34 years. He was inducted into the Foundation’s Honorary Board of Advisors on November 7 at the organization’s Donors of Merit Recognition Event during the American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals Annual Meeting in San Francisco.