Family doctor: Thank you and farewell

After more than 33 years of practicing family medicine in Carson City, it is time for me to close my practice. I have appreciated the warmth and friendship that my patients and this community have provided to both me and my family. It has been a pleasure to be considered part of each and every patient's family, in the good times as well as in the bad times.

When I opened my practice in the fall of 1978 I spent most of my time delivering babies, and then was given the opportunity to watch the babies grow up into productive adults. I have even had the pleasure of taking care of the babies whose parents I delivered much earlier in my career.

I learned a lot from each and every patient and their family. While my job was to provide competent health care, what I received in return far exceeded what I provided in medical care.

I learned about compassion from patients and their families, especially when there was nothing more that could be done for the patient.

I learned about the importance of listening rather than talking, and the power of a smile or a hug.

These experiences have helped me, and will continue to help me, through the remainder of my life.

There are no words that can express how much I have appreciated the opportunities that you have provided me. I am a better doctor now because of all the interactions I have had with my patients and their families.

But most of all, I am a better human being because of you. The practice of medicine is both a gift and a great responsibility. All my patients gave me the gift to practice what I loved, and for this I will be eternally grateful.

• Dr. Stuart Stoloff of Carson City has distinguished himself throughout his career as a practicing physician, a medical school professor and an expert in his field who has served on national and federal panels and commissions. He has been published countless times and has won numerous accolades, including being named Nevada Family Physician of the Year.