
The Power of Community
January 30th, 2010
Serendipity blesses us with insight at times, if we are open to it. This past Thursday afternoon, I had a flight to Washington DC cancelled due to weather. Though I could not deliver a lecture at a dinner event, sponsored by Georgetown Hospital, to some 30 Orthopaedic Surgeons, I was able, having blocked out the next morning to allow for my return, to attend Mass at my son’s school, in which he was a Cantor.
Bishop Matthew Clark presided and gave a wonderful homily in which he reminded all in attendance, regardless of age, that we are each someone’s child. And, that we are all God’s children. During that hour—an hour that I would not have been privy to ordinarily—I reflected on the Bishop’s message. As God’s children, we are united, regardless of age, race, political belief, culture or continent.
And, as Bishop Matt said, we each have been given individual gifts. We may not entirely understand our purpose or why life’s events unfold the way that they do, but---if you believe------there inevitably is a reason. We can mitigate our own shortcomings or weaknesses by leveraging the strengths and talents of others in our “community.”
The outpouring of support from around the world on behalf of the Haitian people is a wonderful example of the Power of Community.
So too am I blessed in my daily life by my patients, referring physicians, and the Health Care Professionals who participate in the care of my patients. Our collective impact/influence is far greater than my own, alone. Similarly, in each of our lives, I am certain that we each are blessed by our “community” of family and friends.
Amidst all that life in 2010 has to offer, the Power of Community reigns supreme.
Replies
Maryann Mazzaferro
Dr. Tomaino
The message that you convey in each of your blogs is encouragement to all of your patients. What a wonderful message you send- each and every one of us "shine" in our own way and has something unique to offer. You always accentuate the positive and how important that is in every aspect of life. Whether it be in just day to day activities or that
struggle to overcome that shoulder discomfort!!! It's the positive outlook that you convey to your patients that makes all of us realize how "blessed" we are to have someone as caring as you as our physician. When i read your
words of wisdom i am so thankful
as i am sure so many of your clients are, for your knowledge and insight into
life and thoughtfulness
in professional health care.
February 3rd, 2010 @ 7:52 pm
TMM
And we shall call you the maven of this community. As you have said/referred to previously, ‘small is the new big’, by His grace you are on your way. You have become the ultimate connector by bringing so many people together in areas far outside of Rochester…all for the purpose of helping us to ‘feel better’.
Duty and today are ours; results and the future belong to God.
T
February 6th, 2010 @ 10:12 pm
JMW
Dr. Tomaino,
You replaced my shoulder and promised me no more pain. I wasn't sure that you could keep your promise. But you did! I had the surgery 4 months ago and now only have to regain the strength in my shoulder muscles. I have full range of motion. God must have been guiding your hand. I will be back to have my other shoulder done.
Thank you.
February 10th, 2010 @ 2:05 pm
Bob M
There's no doubt that Dr. Tomaino is a VERY God gifted Doctor. The best there is!
April 7th, 2010 @ 2:09 pm
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