Zaunbrecher receives humanitarian award

MAY 3, 2004--Dr. Fred "Fritz" Zaunbrecher, founder of the Luke Society and a physician with Galveston Family HealthCare Center, recently was named the recipient of this year's Rabbi Henry Cohen Humanitarian Award.

Zaunbrecher co-founded the Luke Society in 1980. He currently serves as medical director of the organization in addition to maintaining a full-time practice. The Luke Society provides medical care to thousands of people in Mexico, as well as free medical care to the poor and homeless in Galveston.

The Luke Society has offered services to nearly 18,000 patients since it began more than 24 years ago. Each week, a team of volunteers, organized by Zaunbrecher, gathers in a parking lot at 20th and Church streets in Galveston to offer medical care to Galveston's indigent population.

In their nomination letter for Zaunbrecher, Scott and Kathy Curran wrote, "Fritz is extremely sensitive to the feelings of his Saturday morning patients. He knows that some, because of their situations, will never be comfortable going inside a medical facility, yet he is dedicated to ensuring that quality medical care is available to them. Homeless people often trust no one, but Fritz's faithfulness in providing love and medical care over the years has earned him their respect and confidence. With his gentle manner, he greets each one with a smile and friendly conversation, putting them at ease."

The Rabbi Henry Cohen Humanitarian Award is given to perpetuate the memory of Dr. Henry Cohen, a noted humanitarian who served as Rabbi of Galveston's Temple B'Nai Israel for 64 years from 1888 until 1952.

The award is presented to a person whose actions and efforts embody the spirit of humanitarianism.

In reflecting upon the good works of Cohen and the award recipient, it is hoped others will be inspired to follow their example.

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