Previous posts have mentioned the concept of mentoring, lifting another, sharing experiences and giving support. Whatever you do, wherever you are, someone has reached out a hand to assist and that gesture has impacted your life. Today I am privileged to honor a special mentor in my life: Dr. Luther Brady from Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Brady was a premier oncologist who pioneered modern day radiation therapy. I was incredibly fortunate to train with him as a resident in the field. Dr. Brady wrote every textbook, received every award and gold medal oncology had to offer around the world. While his resident, he founded the American College of Radiation Oncology in the 90’s so I learned the power of true devotion to a craft, the commitment to other physicians and the respect and love for patients.
Today I will be inaugurated as President of the College just a few years after Dr. Brady’s passing. I will take on the mantle and hold the responsibility of its members and our profession in my hand and my heart. It is an emotional event because of my connection to my mentor and founder. I promised him when he turned 90 that I would work diligently to promote the camaraderie, foster the specialized teaching from experts around the globe, and guide the young practitioners and residents to continue commitment to the amazing organization setting standards of excellence. We are almost 1500 strong and continuing to grow. This week we held our first virtual conference which was an outstanding success with physicians teaching physicians, mentoring them in the specialty and with life and career lessons to forge their own paths.
I am the 15th president and the second woman. Accepting the position today is a means to honor all of my associates as I start this journey. To celebrate the great minds who guide us. To let you know when you are across from the physician who offers their best care at a critical time in your life, that they bring with them the power of others and of their mentors through the ages. They have committed time and talent to the purpose of your well-being. Although I cannot thank Dr Brady in person, I can do so by carrying out his mission to care in my most diligent and heartfelt way for my patients who then also become his.
Thank you to my husband and family for continued support as I begin this new journey.