Every year, the American Medical Association Foundation recognizes physicians who exemplify the highest values of altruism, compassion, leadership and dedication to patient care with their Excellence in Medicine Awards. In March, Corona-based Mahesh C. Gupta, MD, a specialist in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology, was one of 14 established physicians from across the country to receive a Leadership Award. Gupta was recognized as a seasoned leader who strongly believes in protecting the integrity of the medical profession. In the 1980s, he, along with other physicians, successfully lobbied the U.S. Congress for the passage of legislation for international medical graduate physicians. As president of the Riverside County Medical Association, he created a forum to deal with uninsured patients. As a philanthropist, Dr. Gupta has demonstrated his leadership in raising funds to aid victims of natural calamities around the world.