I'm foregoing posting the other pictures that I took today to post these in honor of my great aunt Betty Aden, who passed away this evening at the age of 84. She was and still is dearly loved by my family and me and will be greatly missed. These photos are of the card that she sent me for my graduation from medical school. I came to relate to Betty more with my move to Utah. Rather than think this an odd decision, she was very encouraging of my moving out west for a little while on my own, as she herself had gone to California on her own when she was younger.

May 15, 2009

Dear Angie,

Really proud of you and may all your patients benefit from your "doctoring." God be with you through the next stages of your life.

With love,

G. Aunt Betty

I think that I spent at least the first nine months of my internship having a difficult time seeing my patients as people because I was so exhausted and overworked and felt like there were so many demands on me all the time. But about a month ago something changed and I couldn't be angry or irritated with people any more because I saw my family members in every one of them. Remembering cards like Betty's is what has allowed me to continue to try to act with integrity and love even when it's hard. If I become a good doctor, it will be because I had so much love and support from my family behind me.

Thank you, Betty, for your love and support. We will miss you.