Parker County Today June 2017 | Page 39

Graduation, Graduation, Graduation!!! Inspirations and Pearls of Wisdom. “There is nothing more important to me as a physician than your cancer treatment. I’ve been in practice for nearly two decades and have had the privilege of telling many patients that there is life beyond cancer. As president of The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, I want to lead by example, practicing a firm belief that all patients should receive the finest medical care available, with the same concern and compassion as a cherished member of the family.” Ray Page, D.O., Ph.D. President and Medical Oncologist The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders It is that time of year and I attended 3 graduation ceremonies this May. The University of North Texas Health Science Center had graduation for its 5 schools. I had the distinct honor of being the banner bearer to lead the graduating class of the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in the procession. I was deeply grateful and took great pride in representing my alma mater. It is always exciting to see the young medical, PA, and graduate students that I have invested time in educating go across the stage and get that diploma. Anne Alaniz, D.O. received the President’s Alumni Award for Distinguished Service. Dr. Alaniz grew up in a small village in one of the poorest countries in the world, Malawi, with a daily struggle for the basics of life. Dr. Donna Ivey met her on a mission trip, saw a girl with a dream and brought her to the United States where she excelled, went to medical school at UNTHSC, and is now a Gynecologic Oncologist in Houston. Most impressively, she goes back to her home country where she has developed a school, a medical facility focused on women’s and children’s health, and an orphanage. Her generosity has saved hundreds of lives and is changing the world. What an inspiration! I attended the 50 th graduation ceremony at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, where one of my daughters graduated with a B.S. in Biology. The commencement speaker was Hobby Lobby CEO, David Green. What a grounded and humbled man. He started his business with a few hundred dollars and now is a multi-billionaire and is one of the top benefactors in the world. He emphasized 3 major stakes that the graduates should look forward to planting. 1) To have a strong marriage, 2) to raise a Godly family, and 3) work every day with purpose according to your gifts. Support services provided by: To learn more about cancer care issues or to consult with a physician about a cancer diagnosis, contact us at 817.596.0637. Schedule appointments by calling 817-596-0637 or online at www.thecentertx.com The third graduation was one of my son’s who graduated high school with his home-school group. What a great group of kids! Tim Barton, of WallBuilders gave a great commission to the kids. He told the life story of the youngest Pony Express rider, who at the age of 11 was delivering mail single handedly across the Western United States. My 12 year old can’t take his bike past the end of the block! Tim Barton emphasized that we should take on the daily challenges of life through 1) courage, 2) persistent grit, 3) and biblical wisdom. I always enjoy the pearls of wisdom and the inspiration at graduations. It is exciting to see so many bright young adults that have shown substantial accomplishments. I am confident they will go out and make our world a better place. Lastly, I heard at a graduation: “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” – Mark Twain 37