Ash Luthra gives a lot of credit to his parents for the person he is today: a self-made businessman, a devoted husband and father, and a generous philanthropist. Growing up in India, he was especially influenced by his mother.
“She was a phenomenal lady,” he shared. “She taught me how to live a good life and about the importance of giving back and helping others. And although it made her sad to see me go, she and my father were instrumental in sending me to the U.S. so I could pursue a career in business.”
Ash attended the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology before moving to the U.S., where he earned advanced degrees at the University of Cincinnati and University of Chicago. He and his brother worked hard to start a small business that grew into a successful medical supply company in Chicago, where Ash and his wife, Kate, raised their son and two daughters.
Inspired by his parents, Ash became involved in the community and supported many local charities and organizations, including Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
“We lived close to the hospital, which has a good reputation. It has a great culture – the doctors, nurses and staff are very patient-centric. We became patients there, and we’ve always received excellent, compassionate care.”
Kate survived a cancer diagnosis under the care of the team at Advocate Lutheran General. She also had three stents placed in her heart.
“We’re very grateful for the care she received,” shared Ash. “Her surgeon was incredible and gave her another shot at life.”
As grateful patients, Ash and Kate have donated generously over the years. The hospital’s meditation garden is named in the family’s honor. They also established the Ash and Kate Luthra Family Endowment for Patient Services.
“I always want our gifts to directly benefit the patients. Things like infrastructure upgrades are also important, but I want to know our giving is helping patients in a meaningful way.”
Ash joined the hospital’s Development Council and sponsored and attended events so he could meet hospital leaders. He learned about the hospital’s programs and needs so he could find ways for his gifts to make an impact. He now serves on the Advocate Charitable Foundation Board.
“I’m really proud that family is also involved with the hospital. Kate was on the Gala committees, my children volunteered at the Adult Down Syndrome Center, and we attend events as a family,” he said. “One of my daughters even works at Advocate now.”
In addition to all the organizations Ash supports locally and even nationally, he also gives back to the community where he grew up in New Delhi.
“I was lucky to come from a family that allowed me to pursue a career in America. I never forgot what my parents did for me, and I’ve done my best to help others in return,” shared Ash. “After my dad passed in 1993, my mom established a free clinic in New Delhi, which I still support today. I started a free computer school for young adults, along with a training school for women so they can learn to sew and earn their own living. I support about six different schools there, so kids aren’t begging on the streets. I visit a few times a year; they’re all successful programs, and I’m fortunate to be able to help.”
How you can help
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is part of Advocate Health, a nonprofit organization that relies on the generosity of donors like Ash and Kate to fund many programs and services. Please consider making a gift today.