Each year, on a Friday morning, in mid-March, thousands of 4th year medical students across the nation are surrounded by family and friends. These future physicians anxiously wait to open an envelope as a clock counts down the seconds. The contents of that envelope are life changing. The letter inside will let them know what life will hold for the next 3 to 7 years - where they will go, what friends and family they will be surrounded by, and what residency program they will begin on July 1. The nervous excitement in the room is indescribable.
Every year, on a Friday morning, in mid-March, I am lucky enough to watch a group of about 60 future phsyicians hold their futures in their hands. I stand by, watching the countdown clock, waiting for the excitement to errupt in the room. As the cheers and hugs begin, I have tears in my eyes. These future physicians, all adults, have been my kids for the past four years.
On the first day of medical school, in a "get to know you" icebreaker session, this group of students learn that I have just returned from an annual 465 mile trek. They all look a bit confused, but it's the first day of med school and there's no way I just mentioned a week in a caravan of motorhomes, along with about 200 others, running 24/7 from Memphis, TN to Peoria, IL.
Over the next several years, I stand by while they are on the rollercoaster that is medical school. From preclinical days to first and last clerkships. As they find their passion and figure out what field of medicine to pursue. When they face the fear of board exams and exhale with relief when they are done. I am there through some of the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. And I have the privelege of getting to know these students from day one until they move on to residency.
These students know of my passion for St. Jude. They know Brittany's story - they recognize the picture of her that sits on a shelf in my office. Many come and talk to me about St. Jude. Fascinated by the mission, the vision, and the affiliate that is here in Peoria.
It seems like every year, writing this intro is harder for me to do. I never know where to start and trying to put my passion for St. Jude into words takes an emotional toll that is hard to explain. Before today, I didn't know where to begin. And then, on today, a Friday morning, in mid March, the words started flooding my brain. I can see the picture of Brittany from my desk as I type. I would give anything, absolutely anything, as I know her family and friends would, to have her here. For St. Jude to be unnecessary. But we aren't there yet.
So, please take a moment. Make a donation. Support St. Jude. Their mission. And their goal to end childhood cancer. Be the reason that those physicians can focus solely on their patients. And that the parents can focus solely on their kiddos without having to worry about housing, food, transportation, and more. Every single dollar makes a difference. There is no dontation to small (or big).
Many hugs & Much love,
Liz