Friday, August 29, 2008

Thank You, Tammy!

From David Rotter, Scheck & Siress prosthetist:
In my work, preserving the confidentiality and privacy of patients is a sacred trust. Taking the best possible care of them is my one and only focus.

But in some cases, patients are open, and sometimes eager, to share their stories with the public. Often it's because they have a passionate cause they want to share. Such is the case with Tammy Duckworth.

Tammy gave me permission to mention my care of her because she is fighting for something that goes well beyond her own situation. A helicopter co-pilot with the National Guard, she was flying a 2004 mission in Iraq when insurgents fired a rocket-propelled grendade that struck her copter. Tammy lost both of her legs and suffered damage to her right arm.


After a close race for Congress, Tammy was named Director of the Illinois Veterans' Affairs Department two years ago by Gov. Rod Blagojevich. That post has enabled Tammy to engage in public service by tirelessly advocating for a variety of issues, including the appropriate level of care for fellow veterans.

Along with millions of other Americans, I watched Tammy's speech on Wednesday night at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. My post yesterday includes a video of Tammy's speech, followed by Tammy using her prostheses to stride triumphantly off the stage.

Regardless of one's political leanings, I have to believe that there is universal respect and gratitude for the sacrifices that Tammy has made for us all.

No comments: