Saying goodbye is remarkably easy

Wednesday was my last day at Fallon Clinic in Worcester. I've taken a new job in Springfield with a retina practice. Things are going to be a little rough back at Fallon for a little while as there are only a couple of people who know how to do my job... And they already have other responsibilities. I felt a little bad about quitting, but after getting walloped last year by a truck in a snowstorm, I just have too many reservations about commuting. So I wrote a letter to everyone.

This year I'm thankful I won't have to drive 120 miles round trip to work any more.

It's been a pleasure working with each and every one of you... well, for a couple it wasn't and you know who you are. But the rest of you… it was fun.

I’d like to thank each of you that took the time to teach me what you know and help me learn how to be even more awesome… if that is even possible.

Everything that I’m taking with me, I owe to you. Despite my unlimited show of self-confidence, when I started here I knew nothing… and you all were willing to give me a chance and impart your knowledge to me.

For those that started after me, I’m glad I had the opportunity to pass along some of that knowledge to you. Do the same to those who come after you.

The days ahead without me will be dark and perilous. There will be times when you'll think the skies will break open, the oceans will boil, and everything will come to a catastrophic end. But you will survive... most of you anyway. To those I say, be nice to each other… help each other out. Remember that we’re here for each other. Patients depend on us to ensure that they remain as healthy as possible. Treat each of them like they were your family… if you like your family, I guess.

Remember, I share 99% of my DNA with chimpanzees, so if I could do it, they can probably train a lemur to replace me. In fact, if Fallon could get away with filling out a W2 for a salary of peanuts and bananas, there would already be a couple here. Life will go on without me. It just won’t be as colorful or taste as sweet.

As a final gift, I give you this...

From Old Family Pics

...proof I wasn't always as bad as I am now.

Thanks for everything,


JOE