Why did you join AAOS?
After passing my Board Certification in 1983 my chairman (Dr. Schultz) suggested I start attending the AAOS Annual Conference. He told me this conference offers many opportunities for my continuing orthopaedic education. Since 1983 I have never missed an Annual Conference (2020 COVID is the only exception) because of the depth and breadth of orthopaedic education. I love to attend the Orthopedic Review Course every few years. That helps keep me updated in all the subspecialties of orthopaedics. Not to forget the great nursing and technical lectures. The exhibit hall is filled with new cutting-edge equipment which you can experience guided by company representatives, as well as a review of products you already use.
How do you define success?
I think first be happy and content with yourself, then life and learning become much easier.
After 49 years of working and teaching in three orthopedic residency programs and countless medical students, success for me will always be about making a difference in other people’s lives. If I know that at the end of the day with the resident, medical and PA students my work has helped someone improve their surgical, clinical skills and orthopaedic knowledge that’s my personal barometer for success.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
I would have to say my three starting Chairmen Dr. Habermann, Schildhaus, and Schultz.
Each one of these three men gave me the opportunity to improve my life and move up the ladder as an allied health professional and because of my undying respect for them I would never let them down.
What do you love most about AAOS?
The Annual Meeting.
What advice would you give to new members of AAOS?
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I love doing Lego projects with my grandkids.