Yet to those who knew Dr . David Richardson , he was so much more than the catalogue of his accomplishments .
As a surgeon , Dr . Richardson was the person to whom everyone turned for his sage advice regarding obscure diagnostic dilemmas and impossible patient management decisions . He was one of the most brilliant men I have ever known . He approached complex problems with his penetrating intellect , impeccable logic and an equal measure of good old-fashioned Eastern Kentucky common sense . His wisdom was legendary . The word “ thoughtful ” does not do justice to Dr . Richardson ’ s style of patient care ; he cared enough about his patients that he would think , and question , and keep on thinking until he found the answer . On trauma call one night recently , I faced a difficult patient management decision and wanted to call David — he surely would know what to do . Alas , he is no longer available for consultation , which makes all of us a little uneasy . Yet , his words still echo in our ears , his teachings passed on from one generation to the next .
As a mentor and role model , Dr . Richardson was truly exceptional . He was the consummate mentor for residents , fellows and faculty members . He always took a keen interest in our medical students , and spent countless hours providing them guidance and career advice . He inspired everyone around him to become more than they ever dreamed they could be . He was a staunch advocate for the benefit of broad-based general surgery training and the critical role of general surgeons , especially in rural areas ; he is responsible for many choosing this career path .
As a professor , Dr . Richardson always had something to profess , because he never stopped asking questions and seeking their answers . He had a unique intellectual curiosity that led him to question all assumptions and dogma . He revisited fundamental questions that others may have passed by as already settled . He was always engaged in the intellectual battle to improve the lives of our patients .
As a leader , Dr . Richardson was charming , engaging , inclusive and decisive . He did not suffer fools and always stood up for what he believed was right . He could instantly see through pretense , prevarication and dissimulation — and cut right to the heart of the matter . His integrity was beyond reproach , and he showed us what a leader should be .
But as a person , David Richardson was much , much more than the sum of these attributes . He was incredibly devoted to his family . He was charismatic and thrived on social interaction . He knew everyone by name , whether at the hospital or the racetrack . Yet he
IN REMEMBRANCE knew much more than their names . He knew their families . He knew their stories . He knew their lives . He was always on the phone talking with friends , family , colleagues and associates — constantly engaged in the lives of others . Unlike the self-indulgent sun that shines its rays dispassionately on the objects in its orbit , the many in David Richardson ’ s orbit experienced his intense ability to listen , absorb and care . His late wife , Suzanne , told him that his greatest fault was that he was always giving unsolicited advice . When he offered such advice , it was always wise to listen very carefully . Many are those , myself included , who have benefited from his unsolicited advice . If this was his greatest fault , it is easy to forgive .
David Richardson taught me many things .
He taught me about work-life balance — that an avocation could enhance your vocation .
He taught me how to read a racing form .
He taught me how to handicap a horse race by first striking out those that could not win ( eliminating the impossible and improbable solutions up front has turned out to be a useful tactic for solving other complex problems ).
He taught me that money is for betting , not eating ( what he learned at the track when he was young ).
He taught me to always box exacta bets . He taught me how and when to make a toast . He taught me to be a surgeon . He taught me to be a leader .
He taught me the importance of family and friends and connection with others .
He taught me how to be a better person . He taught me what matters most .
Godspeed , J . David Richardson . You have made a profound difference in this world . Like many others , you have made a profound difference in my life . I deeply regret that you didn ’ t have more time to give me additional unsolicited advice . I will try to remember the advice you have given . I promise I will box all of my exactas forever .
- Kelly M . McMasters , MD , PhD
Dr . Richardson was a GLMS member for 45 years .
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