As the current leader of Trauma Surgery at Advocate Christ Medical Center, I see every day the impact of the program Dr. Gary Merlotti helped build more than 40 years ago. Gary was an exceptional surgeon, teacher and mentor. His influence continues through the many physicians, nurses and trauma professionals he trained.

Advocate Christ is home to the busiest Level I Trauma Center in Illinois. In 2025, our team cared for more than 4,000 trauma patients, including many who experienced violence-related injuries. This work requires skilled caregivers who are prepared for the most complex injuries and committed to supporting patients and families through recovery.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we have formally established the Gary Merlotti Trauma Education and Survivorship Fund. This is an important milestone, but the work continues.

Gifts to the fund support education and training for trauma caregivers, including nursing scholarships, as well as programs for trauma survivors and their families. We are also working toward permanent recognition of Gary within Advocate Christ Medical Center’s Emergency Department.

Your support will help prepare the next generation of trauma caregivers, strengthen survivor services and carry Gary’s legacy forward through the work of our trauma team.

Please consider making a gift today.

James Doherty, MD
Trauma Program Medical Director
Advocate Christ Medical Center