THE PUBLIC MIND: OPERATING ROOM PERSONNEL WILL MISS DR. DAVID CLARK

To the Editor:

The sudden and untimely death of Dr. David J. Clark has created a deep, aching void in the hearts of each of the lives he touched. Yet, the memory of his compassion and gentle spirit will help us to get through this time of tragic loss. We, at Southeast Hospital Surgery, had the honor of working closely with Dr. Clark, and were treated with the special privilege of truly getting to know this very fine and gentle man.

Dr. David Clark was a true professional. He was a highly trained surgeon who possessed the rare, God-given ability to combine his fine technical skills with his own understanding of the human spirit with his expression of compassion and kindness in treating his patients. He was a fine surgeon, a true gentleman, but most of all, he was the epitome of caring and love. He was not fearful of exposing his own human nature, or of expressing his gratitude for a job well done. Here was a man who was not reluctant to place others before himself. He was a very gentle man who always had kind words and could elevate one's spirit by a mere smile, which he so unselfishlessly shared with us. He was a radiant spark in an otherwise dismal day.

Dr. Clark was a very positive individual. He was so concerned with others, especially his family, and he never missed an opportunity to share with us their achievements. He was especially proud of his two fine sons, and was actively involved in their accomplishments and aspirations. We know he will be sorely missed in their lives. We share with them in their sorrow.

To have someone so special suddenly taken from our lives is a terribly wrenching, emotional experience. Our hearts are heavy and deeply saddened as we mourn his passing. Not only have we lost a fine physician, we have also lost a very dear friend. Yet, we must not allow ourselves to grieve needlessly or forget the lessons he taught us. Rather, let us celebrate life with joy and caring in the spirit that he exemplified. Let us live life to the fullest and share our love with, and for, each other as he did with us. Dr. David Clark would have wanted that.

Composed by Karen Rudert,

ORT, in memory of

Dr. David Clark

from Southeast Hospital

Operating Room

Nurses and Technicians