11/24/06

Dear Rob McDonald,

You may not be aware, but I've come to know you over the past year. I've watched you deal with life, school and stress. Through this, I've grown to respect and appreciate you. Amidst medical school and the burdens of life, it is common for people to forget who they are; to become estranged from their identity. I want to remind you who you are. To bring your attention to what makes you so valuable and what causes other people to smile. Read this letter knowing that you are loved by many.

Rob thank you very much for the time and energy you put in to serve as our class President. I know that the majority of the work you put in is behind the scenes, and that you might not get the thanks that you deserve. You deserve much. Thank you for meeting with the Deans on our behalf, and for taking our concerns about the parking situation to those in charge. The long, tiresome, monotonous meetings that you go to on our behalf are indicative of your character. You take time out of your life and your studies to make sure that we are well taken care of, and for that you are appreciated. You have done a good job; we are well taken care of thanks to your leadership.

Additionally, thank you for your servant's attitude toward life. I know that you in medical school nor for your own gain but rather you want to provide others things that they need. I don't think money, wealth, or power could ever make it on your priority list. You have nobler goals. It is obvious you want to help people have healthy bodies and healthy minds. Though I am not from Africa, I want to thank you on their behalf. The gifts of knowledge you are gaining here at UAB will surely be spent on their welfare, and the time that you invest here will be for their benefit. You are doing a great thing, don't give up!!! Medical school is a difficult time and may seem to drag on forever, but we are quickly approaching the halfway point. Soon, the mission that you have envisioned will become a reality, and you will be able to care for the warm-hearted people with whom you have linked your life.

Rob, I truly admire the way that you are so patient and kind towards everyone you meet. You manage to give respect and honor to every member of our class, be they difficult to get along with or easy. One of your most admirable qualities is that you are always willing to listen and always willing to help. The time that you share with classmates is definitely not spent in vain; you have encouraged and relieved many of our colleagues by dropping your notes for 5 minutes and lending your ear. Though at times you may have thought that it was only a little thing, remember that even the largest landslide begins with a single falling stone. You have influenced our class for the better with your kindness.

To finish, I would simply like to say that I am so glad to have you as a member of our class. Thank you for being the man that you are and for sharing your life with us.

Sincerely,

Anonymous Colleague