That evening, we celebrated his accomplishments by going to the annual dinner for the Morgan L. Allison Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, where they presented James with his certificate of completion. I can't begin to say how proud I was of James, and I don't think I was the only one. James' parents, Craig and Kathy, his brother, Aaron, and his sister, Amy, and her husband, Aaron, and daughter, Emma, all came to Ohio from across the country to support him. My parents wished they could be there, but living in Japan does create some challenges, one of which is not always being able to be where you want to be.
Each of the graduates were given an opportunity to say something during the presentation, and James' speech was remarkable - he was so poised, well-spoken and full of gratitude to those who helped him learn so much. I can't believe I am married to this man!
James, and each of his fellow graduating residents wrote a final "farewell" for the newsletter that was published. This is what James wrote (unedited, I promise):
"The last four years have been filled with challenging and rewarding experiences. My wife, Lisa, has always been supportive and never complained of my long hours away from home. I would not have made it through residency if not for her encouragement and love. She is a wonderful wife and mom. I'm grateful for a loving family that taught me to set goals then help me obtain them. Thanks to the faculty members who insisted on exactness and pushed me beyond what I thought was capable of doing. I'm thankful for staff members who made coming to work every day enjoyable. I'm especially grateful to have served with tremendous residents who were always willing to work hard and be great friends."
Congratulations, James! Here's to finally becoming a grown-up and getting your first "big-boy job!" I love you!
Here are a few more pictures from the evening:
James receiving his certificate of completion from Dr. Eric Evans (program director)
James' parents, Craig and Kathy, and us
The Elisons and us. What would we have done for the last 4 years without these great friends???
Courtney Jatana, James, and Kelly Podlosky (James had some very cute co-residents!)
James and Mark
