On World Mental Health Day, I flew into Mumbai to the Raj Bhavan for a special reason. As I stood alongside 50 of the most celebrated doctors in Mumbai — oncologists, radiologists, physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists, surgeons, orthopedics, ICU care practitioners, and many more experts, it was a proud moment not just for me but for all of us at Team Luke.

With the Governor of Maharashtra, His Excellency, Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai.

Being felicitated among these incredible frontline warriors for our work in the pandemic was an absolute honor. It was humbling to learn of all the amazing work our medical practitioners have done and continue to do on the frontline — the sacrifices made and the lives lost in the valiant battle against COVID-19. This ongoing pandemic was a critical time for us at Team Luke too, as we worked closely to use our online platforms to help those in need of holistic guidance. At the event, it was heartwarming to have doctors walk up to us and talk about how our work has impacted many of their patients and transformed lives.

When we began our journey seven years ago, this was the dream we envisioned for integrative and lifestyle medicine. Today, the reality of its success is dawning upon us. Our work spoke for us. Our patients and their results spoke for our ideology and everything we do.

A closer look at the honor roll.

What was particularly heartening was the Governor of Maharashtra, His Excellency, Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari’s address to all of the awardees. He emphasized the need for holistic wellness. And why doctors today need to work not just with physical symptoms but realize the importance of mental health, too. To assess the happiness of the patient, their emotional health and guide them in the right direction.

Alongside some of the celebrated names in the medical fraternity at the Raj Bhavan.

All I can say is that I feel complete today. It is an unmatched feeling of elation and success. We are on a mission and our impact is being felt everywhere. It is humbling and satisfying. Thank you to Team Luke from the bottom of my heart for making this dream for us and the impact we intended to create from Day 1 to date. A big thank you to you, our ardent followers, and the YouCare community for your love and support always. This is indeed a big win, not just for us but also for the field of integrative and holistic wellness to be recognized by our Government leaders, the medical fraternity, and the wellness industry.

With gratitude always,

Luke Coutinho