Don’t know whether it’s Dr. Alan Menter’s charm, his South African accent, or his brilliance, or perhaps all three, that have made him the fan favorite of those with challenging skin. In Dallas since 1975, he’s been dealing with every type of dermatological issue. However, one in particular really caught his attention years ago — psoriasis.
Oh, sure, you’ve heard it’s unattractive, but that doesn’t even touch the pain and cruelty of this immune-mediated disease that affects 7.5 million Americans, including 675,000 Texans.
No, you don’t have to worry about it being contagious. That’s the good news. But treatment is difficult at best and no one is quite certain what causes it. That’s the bad news. The worst news is that depending upon its severity, it can be embarrassingly ugly, painful and cause disability because of its effect on joints resulting in painful arthritis.
Alan has become world famous for his research and dedication in breaking the barriers of the disease’s treatment and cure. In 2004 he founded the International Psoriasis Council, as well as co-authored a “groundbreaking study that identified the first gene involved in the development of psoriasis and helped pave the way for future psoriatic disease research.”
For his years of work and creating greater awareness of the disease, Alan will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Psoriasis Foundation at its semi-annual Commit to Cure Gala on Saturday, October 26, at the Hilton Anatole.
“Dr. Menter’s passion for treating people with psoriasis has made him a world-renowned leader and innovator in medical dermatology as well as a friend of many individuals affected by the disease,” said Julie Hubach, chairwoman of the Psoriasis Foundation Gala committee. “The gala will be an evening of gratitude and celebration while raising funds for a very worthy cause with cocktails, seated dinner and a video tribute to his work.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime fundraising event honoring our dear friend and internationally respected physician,” Julie continued. “We anticipate many of Alan’s colleagues from many countries will be attending the event.”
“There probably aren’t many people with psoriasis in the United States who haven’t benefited from Dr. Menter’s knowledge of the disease and his commitment to improving patients’ lives,” said Dan Farrington, chair of the National Psoriasis Foundation Board of Trustees. “Throughout his career, he has guided the next generation of psoriasis experts and researchers, worked to improve treatment options and standards of patient care, and paved the way for future psoriatic disease research. We are thrilled to honor Dr. Menter for all he’s done for the psoriasis community.”
How about a little trivia about Dr. M? In addition to his leadership in medicine, he was known for being a flyhalf rugby union player for the Springboks.
Photo provided by National Psoriasis Foundation