Veli Lök: A Medical Career Dedicated to Humanity

Years later, I went to the Izmir Medical Chamber (İTO) for an interview. I came face to face with many memories and experiences. Alongside the emotions, I felt very happy. 

The secretary general of the İTO, Dr. Nuri Seha Yüksel, conveyed over the phone, "We would like to hold an interview on Friday, September 19, 2025, for the book published about Prof. Dr. Veli Lök, titled 'Veli Lök; A Medical Career Dedicated to Humanity.' The author of the book, Dr. Ö. Özkan Özdemir, will be coming from Mersin. We would like you to be the moderator of this interview; we would be happy on behalf of our chamber if you accept." I accepted, saying, "I would be honored; when it comes to Prof. Dr. Veli Lök, everything else takes a backseat."

On the day of the interview, as I arrived at the entrance of the İTO building in the late afternoon as the meeting time approached, I encountered old and new friends, and we chatted. I met the author of the book.

The 1980s were years when the Junta descended upon the country like dark clouds. After a fierce struggle, we had won the İTO administration at the ballot box under the presidency of Prof. Dr. Orhan Süren.

Despite the pressure and many obstacles from the Junta's supporters, the election we won was respected, and they handed over the administration to us.

When we compare it to today, the CHP is trying to obstruct the will of the ballot box with frequently recurring congresses. We could even put forward the claim that there was a more democratic environment during the September 12 Junta period compared to today.

With the great and selfless efforts of Professor Orhan, we had acquired the historic building for our chamber. Years of selfless, honorable struggle.

After confronting the memories, we moved to the hall.

The İTO Prof. Dr. Orhan Süren meeting hall was full, and we had started the interview. Our professor, Veli Lök, connected live via video from his home and greeted his students, friends, and other guests.

As the interview progressed, Dr. Özkan explained how he prepared his book and that he made use of both published and unpublished documents. He had conducted three interviews with Veli Lök. 

The book is truly professionally prepared. It was written by comparing every period of Veli Lök's 92-year life with the political and sociological environment of our country and the world during those years. Dr. Özdemir said, "Writing a biography is not easy. It was prepared by examining the years the professor lived in detail."