Ladies and Gentlemen of the AAFP Congress of Delegates,
As I stand before you today, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and reflection. Serving as the Board Chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my life, and I am deeply honored to have been part of this esteemed community for the past 25 years.
My journey in academic medicine began as a resident in family medicine over 25 years ago. This curiosity was nurtured by several remarkable mentors, Dr. Richard Bonanno (my program director) and Dr. Scott Kirsch (my associate program director) whose dedication to both their field and their residents left an indelible mark on me. During my three years of training, these mentors were not merely transmitters of knowledge but facilitators of understanding, who encouraged questioning and critical thinking. They encouraged my growth as a physician clinically, academically and in advocacy, both having been past presidents of the NYSAFP.
Those formative years set the foundation for my 22 subsequent years as a practicing physician.
I was voluntold my first role leadership role within my organization, when appointed the inaugural hospital medicine director, which lent to my also being in charge of the resident educational rotations. This opportunity would allow me to grow in my knowledge and skills of healthcare operations and education simultaneously. An advantage that would be crucial as I worked to implement operational strategies while educating clinicians on new developments and technology.
As I went on this journey as a health care leader within my organization, I continued to be engaged in the activities of the NYSAFP and the AAFP. Because of this, and in no small part due to the members of our congress, I have been privileged to hold various leadership roles here —from resident leader to commission member, board member, and ultimately, president. Each role has enriched my life and strengthened my resolve to serve family medicine.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing. Many of you are aware that during my tenure on the board, I faced personal challenges, including a battle with cancer. In fact, those who hear me speak of it, know I am grateful to have been diagnosed in the summer of 2019 and to have gone through the many hospitalizations and complications with a final discharge from the hospital the day after Thanksgiving that same year. Because, a few months later, in NY at least, everything shut down due to the pandemic. Patients with cancer were no longer a priority due to the acute and deadly impact of Covid along with the limited resources we had at the time. How proud I am that our academy was at the forefront sharing best practices and updates throughout this period to assist all of us in caring for our patients. I am very aware had I been diagnosed a few months later in 2020, I would not be here today. And happily, in a few weeks I will be celebrating five years cancer-free. The support I received from my academy family during this time was overwhelming and is a testament to the strength and compassion that defines us.
During my 6 years on the board, 3 yrs as a board member and 3 years as an officer, I have had the privilege of visiting you at your various states and chapters, meeting so many members. The students and residents I encountered inspired me deeply, and I can confidently say that the future of family medicine is bright.
I will admit that one of my most cherished memories is attending the New York State chapter meeting as AAFP president. Going back to where it all began. Addressing the NY COD and installing the officers felt like coming full circle. I thank you NYSAFP for always believing in me and for taking me under your wings as a resident 25 years ago. And a special thank you to Dr. Jim Mumford, who is no longer with us, for he did for us and for introducing me to the Flying Spaghetti Monster’s Pastafarianism and to colorful reading glasses.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to the AAFP staff in Leawood, KS, and Washington, DC. They are the engine that keep us moving forward, helping us serve despite external pressures that threaten to divide us.
Thank you to the board members with whom I have served. Especially my 3 Presidents group plus CEO that I engaged with weekly for the last 3 years. Drs. Stewart, Ransone, Furr and Brull. Plus Mr. Martin, Ms Burk and Ms. Easter. Their unwavering commitment allows us to fulfill our mission, and for that, I am grateful.
Thank you to my Northwell family, Maria Massot (my exec assistant), Barbara Keber my vice chair, and the members of my Family Medicine Service Line team and Northwell leadership as a whole.
Then, there is my family family. Mom, OC, Obi, Ugo, Charles, Pierce, Isabella, Miles, Debo, Ms. V and Tammy. You kept me grounded. You supported my lofty goals and ideas. You had my back. Thank you.
A quick heavenly thanks to my dad who didn’t get to see this part of my journey and to my Uncle Herbert who filled in for him at my inauguration in Albany for the NYSAFP presidency and in DC for my AAFP presidency. He passed away several weeks ago but I know the two brothers are proud.
So, as I prepare to hand over the baton, I reflect on the three personal goals that have guided my journey and that I have shared with everyone, ad nauseum. And no, it’s not PPPLEWAAT. That is our strategic plan which will be updated in 2025 led by our incoming new president Dr. Jen Brull.
So no, my three personal goals are: to help others be better, do better, and live better.
First, helping others to “be better”. This is fostering an environment where learning and growth are continuous. From encouraging professional development to exploring innovative pathways and programs, I see the potential that lies within each of us when we are given the opportunity to expand our horizons.
Second, helping others to “do better”. The knowledge we acquire should serve as a catalyst for change. By applying what we learn, we improve the lives of our patients, enhance the well-being of our communities, and uplift our colleagues. Through advocacy, community engagement, and the implementation of innovative processes in our practices, we have proven that family medicine is at the heart of a healthier society.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I have sought to help others “live better”. We cannot fully serve others unless we first take care of ourselves. Mental, physical, and spiritual health & wellness are not luxuries but necessities. The tools and programs the AAFP have promoted to elevate the health of family physicians, residents, and students are crucial. These help to address the personal, local, and national challenges that affect us all. Please, please avail yourself of them.
I urge you all to continue respecting each other, even when we have differing opinions and beliefs. We should also remember that there are a number of people who are struggling privately, and it is our duty to speak and act with grace.
As I transition from an elected leader to a proud and engaged member, who gets to wear the ghost ribbon, I assure you I will continue to support and engage with this community, as I encourage and promote the new generation of leadership.
Thank you for allowing me to continue pursuing my personal mission.
Thank you for this incredible journey.
Godspeed.