To my beloved wife, Gloria, who has always understood my dedication to the art and science of medicine, and who has unselfishly tolerated the endless hours I have spent in my pursuit of knowledge, self-fulfillment, and writing.

To my dear children, Lorelle, Stephen, and Debra, and my grandchildren, Chase, Elliot, Reid, and Spencer, whose loving spirits give me endless joy

To my parents, Henry and Regina, who afforded me a happy, caring, and loving home.

To my grandmother Frieda, whose love and support during my teen years encouraged me to follow my chosen path to medicine. She was the queen of my formative years, and her spirit and fortitude to this day are part of me.