Reflection is good, or so someone once said. It seems that when colleagues give one a responsibility and entrust that individual with leadership, it is appropriate to reflect on what led to that honor and recognition. In my own case, I have concluded that the word "giving" most accurately recounts my evolution as a person and as a physician. That giving has manifested itself in so many ways and through so many people, some of whom I know so very well and a few whom I have never met.

The giving in my life began with my parents, Margaret and Gerald Healy. These were children of the early 20th century, born into an era of adversity that included World War I, the Depression, and World War II; it is almost too much to comprehend. In the end, however, it made them strong, insightful people of very modest means who demanded much of themselves, and wanted very much to provide a stable life for their children. Their work ethic and strong moral fiber were molded from their parents and a staunch Irish heritage steeped in adversity but hallmarked by survival. These principles were ingrained in me from a very early age. Set your goals, they would say, and then work to your dream, but never forget from whence you came and above all, give of yourself to others.

What was that dream? As long as I can remember, it was to become a physician. Perhaps it was Eli Friedman, my pediatrician, or Joe Dubins, my parents' family doctor, who were influencing me as I would watch their kind and reassuring manner comfort me and my family. Their giving was somehow passed to me in ways I didn't really realize at the time, but now can appreciate.

My heritage includes my training, and more giving unfolds in my life. My teachers Stuart Strong and Charles Vaughan, who are here today, ingrained a caring and sensitivity for the sick and dying into my professional character. They gave me the blueprint for being a role model and taught me the principles of careful thought, meticulous surgery, and ethical conduct. They, along with so many others that molded me as an otolaryngologist, gave me more than they will ever realize. For that, I am eternally grateful.

I never met Chevalier Jackson, but he gave me the desire to care for the human airway. I tried to devour everything he ever wrote, and this only pushed me harder to achieve solutions to those challenging diseases of the adult and pediatric airway. He gave me a unique thirst to explore solutions to so many unanswered questions.

As my professional career has progressed, I have been fortunate enough to be able to give some of myself to others. This has included a career of teaching and the passing on of my heritage to my many students and colleagues. Many of these outstanding physicians who have gone on to become members of this great organization have made important contributions to the field of laryngology. These include individuals such as Ellen Friedman, Jamie Kaufman, Stan Shapshay, Mark Weissler, Peak Woo, and Steve Zeitels. The many other residents and fellows whose training I have been privileged to provide have hopefully carried precepts taught to me and given to them on to their patients. Finally, I must recognize the most giving person in my life, my wife, Anne. Those who know her can attest to the fact that she gives more of herself to others than anyone I know. She has given me support, love, and strength for our almost 33 years of marriage. Together we have given the world two wonderful daughters, Lisa and Laurie, whom we know will continue to give of themselves to others. This principle has always been the cornerstone of our family.

The giving tree never stops. It remains with you all the days of your life. Reflect on it. It is what makes us who we are and who we hope others will become. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Elsberg, Solis-Cohen, Casselberry, Mosher, deRoaldes, Newcomb, Jackson, Holinger, Tucker, and Strong, as well as the other great laryngologists who have had the honor of serving as President of this great Association. I sincerely hope I have served you well. Give and never stop. Thank you.