Dear Sir,
I taught human anatomy at two Allopathic Medical Schools in America for the better part of four decades before I retired in 2007. Since that time, I had taught for a few weeks each year at a medical school in the Caribbean region. In my numerous interactions with students I have heard many stories of dedication and determination to obtain a medical degree, all of them inspirational. Recently I met a student whose story was the most inspiring of all. This student attracted my attention because he was clearly older than the typical medical student. It turned out he’s in his late fifties and the proud father of six children. Three are now doctors, one a nurse, one a psychologist, and the youngest who is still in high school wants to become a radiologist. He has been a physician’s assistant for decades, supporting his family. Now, with the encouragement of his wife (a school teacher) and children, he has decided to become a physician himself. In his words, “my family supports me emotionally, spiritually and financially.” He is the most determined student I have met. Will he pass the Boards and become qualified to practice medicine? I don’t know, but I’m optimistic!
Declaration of interest: The author reports no conflicts of interest.