Today we’d like to introduce you to Suleman Lalani
Hi Suleman, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey began in the early 1990’s when I arrived in the United States from Pakistan to pursue a career in medicine. I chose the United States because it offered the most advanced medical practices and the highest quality of healthcare, and because it is the world’s greatest nation. Settling in Sugar Land, Texas, I dedicated myself to serving the community as a quadruple board certified primary care physician, specializing mainly in internal medicine and geriatrics for over two decades. Throughout my career, I have focused on bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly for underserved populations, through my own practice and charitable endeavors—always striving to do more.
Alongside my medical practice, I felt a deep calling to enter public service, which led to my election to the Texas Legislature in 2022. My journey from a young immigrant doctor to a Texas State Representative is one of resilience, commitment, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. As one of the first Muslim representatives in the Texas Legislature and a founding member of the AAPI Caucus, my journey has been both humbling and inspiring.
In addition to the AAPI Caucus, I am a member of the Technology and Innovation Caucus, the Texas Energy and Climate Caucus, the Texas Water Caucus, the Texas Women’s Health Caucus, and the Nuclear Caucus. As a member of the House Democratic Caucus, I served on the Steering Committee and the Education Committee, where I played an instrumental role in stopping voucher legislation from advancing in the House. I also serve on the senior House Committees of Higher Education, Natural Resources, and Resolutions Calendars.
Beyond my medical practice and legislative work, I am actively involved in various community organizations. I serve on the boards of the Fort Bend Rainbow Room and the Exchange Club of Fort Bend, both of which focus on improving the lives of vulnerable populations in our community. I have also been involved with the Aga Khan Foundation USA, the National MS Society, and the Alzheimer’s Association. My commitment to public service extends beyond my professional life, as I am deeply involved in philanthropic efforts, raising awareness and funds for these organizations. In fact, it was through my role as an Ambassador to the U.S. Congress for the Alzheimer’s Association that I realized I could be an agent of positive change back home in Texas.
My proudest achievement is marrying the love of my life, Zakia, and starting a beautiful family in Sugar Land. My Wife and I have 3 sons together whom we love immensely. Altogether, three generations of Lalani live under one roof. Our family is very close-knit and incredibly important to me. I couldn’t be where I am today without all of them. They lift me up and provide immeasurable support, but are also my anchor to keep me grounded.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach to care, both in my medical practice and in the legislature. I strive to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, always guided by the principle that I am a physician first, legislator second.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to where I am today has been anything but smooth. Like many immigrants, I faced numerous challenges, from cultural adjustments to systemic barriers in the healthcare field. The early years were marked by long hours, financial constraints, and the pressure of proving myself in a new country. As a practicing physician, I saw firsthand the disparities in healthcare, which fueled my desire to advocate for policy changes. Transitioning into a legislative role introduced a new set of challenges, including navigating the complexities of state politics and advocating for my constituents’ needs. Despite these obstacles, each challenge has strengthened my resolve to serve and uplift my community. My commitment to bridging the healthcare access gap and advocating for betterment has been a driving force throughout my journey.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My dual role as a physician and legislator is both unique and fulfilling. In my medical practice, I am quadruple board certified in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, and Long-Term Care. I completed my fellowship training at Baylor College of Medicine and have attended courses at Harvard Medical School and Columbia University College of Physicians. I am recognized by the National Register of Who’s Who for Excellence in Geriatric Medicine. I have dedicated my career to improving healthcare access and outcomes, particularly for seniors and underserved communities.
My work in the Texas Legislature is an extension of this mission. During the 88th Legislative session I made good on my promise to work on legislation that would make a difference for everyday Texans. I was the only freshman with two riders certified on the state’s Appropriations Bill – one allocating $5 million to the Family Practice Residency Program; and two, giving Texas the option to draw down federal funding by creating the necessary administrative and regulatory framework to create a stockpile of medical items such as PPE, pharmaceuticals and other medical supplies as preparation against future pandemics, health crises, or natural disasters. I also had tangible successes on my legislative priorities including healthcare, education, mental health, and technology. I am proud to have passed 36 pieces of legislation bearing my name that went into effect this past. I championed extending Medicaid coverage for post-partum mothers, established campus tours of mental health facilities for college freshmen, created a taskforce to implement workforce training in the area of artificial intelligence, increased community college funding, required additional training for peace officers who interact with Alzheimer’s patients and making a parental note satisfactory documentation for their child’s absence from school due to a religious holiday. I used my position to amplify the voices of all those calling for the policies Texans want and need to end the personal tragedies and public health crisis of gun violence.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
My journey has certainly had its share of struggles. Early in my career, the challenge was establishing myself as a trusted healthcare provider in a new country. The transition to public service brought different hurdles, such as learning the intricacies of legislative processes and building alliances to pass meaningful legislation. However, I believe that luck is often the intersection of preparation and opportunity. The support of my family, the trust of my patients, and the encouragement from my constituents have all played pivotal roles in my journey. While luck has favored me in many ways, it is the hard work, perseverance, and the collective support of my community that have truly paved the way for my successes. Throughout my career, I have seen that being prepared to seize opportunities is what ultimately leads to success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drlalanifortexas.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlalanifortx/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/LalaniTX
- Twitter: https://x.com/DoctorLalani
Image Credits
House Digital Media (Inside the capitol photos)
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Texas State Rep. Dr. Suleman Lelani use a historic Quran, held by his wife, as the 88th Legislature is sworn in at the State Capitol, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023.
Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News
