Although I had a simple childhood by modern standards (social security checks were our main source of income), I had a dream and became the first physician in our family tree. All is not lost despite the gravity of the situation. I feel some comfort in the fact that if my father could see me now he would be at ease with the fact that his absence did not hinder my success. He would have no reason to feel like he let me down. In fact I envision my life and career as somewhat of a passing of the baton; he simply handed it off earlier than anyone anticipated.

I treasure the time I spend with my wife and family, my perspective indelibly influenced by my childhood experience. It is indeed a wonderful life.