Rounds

Dedicated to the graduates of the West Virginia University School of Medicine past, present and future.

Preface by Lynda B. Nine, Vice President for Alumni Affairs

The West Virginia University School of Medicine is proud of its physician graduates who provide for the healthcare needs of people across the Nation and in many foreign countries.  These graduates are bound together with cords of love for the practice of medicine and loyalty to their alma mater.  There is just something about being a Mountaineer that can't be explained, just enjoyed and shared.

Rounds is a compilation of short essays and thoughts from some very special Mountaineers who have shared words of encourage and wisdom gained from medical practices and living.  It is their collective hope that this book will be an inspiration to generations of WVU physicians to come.

Our thanks go to the many people who made this book possible, in particular, Dr. David Kappel who originated the idea for the book and  worked tirelessly in editing and providing leadership to bring the project to completion.  Special thanks goes to his friend and partner in medical practice, Dr. E. Phillips Polack for his encouragement and support.  In addition, we thank all the contributing authors, the designer Brian Jimmie from the Office of Alumni Affairs, the WVU School of Medicine Alumni Association, Dr. Tony Licata and the class of 1964, and especially CEO Phil Wright and the Health Plan of Upper Ohio Valley for their generous gift and help with printing and publication.

". . . a reporting of lessons learned, of mistakes made, of choices refined." This is how editor, David A. Kappel, class of 1969, describes Rounds, a book written by alumni for students. Dr. Kappel presented signed copies to 2008 graduates at Match Day.

Dave Kappel with Brian Jimmie.