A Letter to Craig S. Kitchens, Professor of Medicine, UF College of Medicine
And attached reprint:
Thoughts of the Present from a Perspective of the
Past (by Craig S. Kitchens, MD
Eugene A. Stead, Jr.
November 1, 2003
Dear Craig,
Many moons ago, you asked me and my wife to come to your summer working and
learning session with your young men. I replied that I had no special
knowledge of the field of hematology and would give you the names of three
exciting young professors that could add more than I could. You replied that
you wanted me.
My wife and I spent a few delightful days in Florida and I
enjoyed the staff and patients that your team was guiding through the trauma
of a serious illness. Technically I added nothing to the diagnosis and
treatment of the specific illnesses. I did add something to the discussion
of the care of the patient and the family and how to live
and profit by major episodes of illness.
After the third day, I met with you after the days work was over. I wanted
an answer as to why I, a non-hematologic doctor, was given the chance to spend
5 days with a group of sick patients and brilliant, scientifically
oriented young doctors.
I have never forgotten your anser - that I was the first doctor who told you
to let your patient die in peace. You have no further treatment that will
help him. The family will always remember you as a wise, responsible and
caring physician.
Eugene A Stead Jr. M.D.
Back to my thoughts
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