Wow!
5 Years of Residency (80 hours a week) + 4 Years of Medical School (CrAzY hours) + 4 Years of Undergrad (I was only around for one of those years) = WE ARE DONE!!! It is hard to believe! Now he only works 60 hours per week! ;-)
The last 9 years of intense training has gone by fast and has been full of things to be thankful for. Ned has been dedicated to our family. When he had time to spend at home, he spent it with us. At times he would try so hard to stay awake at the dinner table but was unable to...but he was still there...to look at...and giggle at when his head bobbled.
When it was possible, he would trade hours so he didn't have to work on Sunday. He would usually work Saturday morning to Sunday morning and then change and go to church with our family...even when he didn't get any sleep the day and night before. There was not a Sunday that went by that he decided he was too tired to go to church with us. The example he has set for me and his children is priceless. He didn't have to lecture us to teach us the importance of going to church...he taught us by example.
The last 9 years has not been without struggle and trial; but, I can honestly say that we have grown and been strengthened by the experiences we have had together. Thank you honey for all your hard work and sacrifices! You make me complete! I love you and congratulations!!
First we attended his Air Force Graduation at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. What a spectacular place! There is nothing like eating dinner a few yards away from a Stelth Fighter Jet and many other incredible aircraft from years past.
Here are some words of gratitude from the kiddos:
Laura - "Thank you dad for letting us go visit you at work and watching movies with us in your call room."
Michael - "Thank you for remembering to wrestling with us when you got home from work."
TJ - "Thanks for taking me fishing."
Brock - He enjoys the wrestling as much as the older ones do.
Ned's Wright State University Graduation.
What a celebration it was! The graduation festivities were located at the Engineering Club in Dayton. Thanks to all the family that came from Arizona and Philidelphia to share in our excitement over Ned's accomplishments over the last 9+ years of his medical eduation.
First we enjoyed a beautiful dinner.
Oh - can't forget this little guy. Confined in this "cute-girly" seat, Brock was able to enjoy some of his meal. He was so tired. (Remember events like these don't usually begin until it is bedtime for little munchkins.)
Then we made our way to the auditorum where the ceremony began.
After being teased for having soooo many children,
Ned received the William A. Nahhas Surgical Excellence Award
(Wright State University, 2009)
During his residency program he has also received the following awards:
Resident Research Award for Obstetrics and Gynecology
(Wright State University, 2008)
Arnold P. Gold Humanism and Excellence in Medicine Educator Award, 2006
Arnold P. Gold Humanism and Excellence in Medicine Honor Society, 2006
During his Medical Education he has been very active in research.
He has had 15 Publications/Professional Conference Presentations.
Ned always amazes me in what he can accomplish at home, church, and in his profession. Way to go Ned!!
Then it was PaRtY time on the dance floor! The Williams and Palmers took over the dance floor - especially the little ones!
Brock was a dancing maniac. He did not want to be held...even for a second. I think he was on his 4th or 5th wind by this point and was the star of the show for quite sometime.
Our kids and guests were so much fun at this dance. It will definately be a night to remember!
Having these sweet little ones to share in this journey with us has been priceless!
