Posted Condolences / Memories

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The opinions expressed on this page are those of the individuals posting submissions, not the University of Michigan or its affiliates. The University of Michigan reserves the right to edit submissions at its discretion, and to not publish submissions deemed inappropriate for posting on this board.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 07:24 PM by Sue Neilly

To all my former colleagues in Cardiac Surgery at U of M - I was shocked and saddened to learn of the great loss you have all suffered in this tragic accident. I knew Richard well, he was an unbelievable person, always smiling and more than willing to help at any time. He will be greatly missed as will all of the team. My heartfelt condolences go out to the team and their families. Sue Neilly, Willsboro, NY

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 07:12 PM by Maggie Ray and Ronald Bauman

Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the Survival Flight crash victims. May God bless all.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 07:03 PM by Andrea Helwig

I don't know these people personally, but my son had a heart transplant almost 7 years ago at the U of M. I know these people were doing an important job to help save the life of someone they have never met. All the families, friends and co-workers of these people will be in our prayers. Andrea Helwig and family

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:32 PM by Tassos Polimenakos

It is devastating to hear about the loss of these outstanding physicians and members of the Michigan survival flight team.

To their families, my condolence for this tragedy is not enough to express my enormous sadness for the event. If this can alleviate their devastation, it is the promise of all the physicians involved in the lifesaving process of transplantation and organ procurement that their loss will remain encripted in our memory as a statement of devotion to the principles of Hippokrates and the foundation of medical science

With respect to their memory,

TP


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:27 PM by Rabbi Robert Dobrusin Beth Israel Congregation Ann Arbor

On behalf of Beth Israel Congregation, Ann Arbor, we extend our condolences to the families, colleagues, associates and friends of those who were killed in the tragic crash of the University of Michigan medical plane on Monday. Our thoughts and our prayers for comfort go out to all of those who mourn at this time.

May the memory of the victims of this terrible accident be a blessing and may their memory inspire all of those who serve our community to continue their critical work for the benefit of all.

Beth Israel Congregation


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:19 PM by Rebecca Horner RN SICU

Martin Spoor was great to work with. I got to know him well during his year long critical care fellowship in the SICU. He then rotated through the SICU as Staff for a week at a time. He was so down to earth and could be so funny. One day I ran in to him and his son at Costco. He introduced me to his son and I noticed his son had on some pretty flashy shoes for a boy. I said "Hey I like your shoes" Martin whispered to me "they are hand-me-downs from his sister. He likes them because they light up." We both laughed.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:18 PM by Fouzia Siddiqui

My deepest condolence for the families and friends of our fellow colleagues of U of Michigan who were lost in this tragic accident. May the families be bestowed with peace to deal with this tragedy and loss. My prayers and thoughts are for the familes, friends and loved ones of the heroes affected by this tragedy. May God bless us all and always.

Fouzia Siddiqui, MD , Neurology Department, Universtiy of Toledo Medical Center


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:17 PM by Toni Szpara

Richard Chenault was always ready to talk about organ donation/procurement. Whenever I approached him to speak to a group, or give staff an in-service about the subject, he never hesitated, he just said, "Name the place, and I'll be there." I'll never forget his smile and his positive attitude and the love he had for the patients and the cause. He will be deeply missed.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:01 PM by Tony Slotboom

Twenty years ago Martin Spoor and I were standmates, playing violin in the Calgary Youth Orchestra. My heart is heavy with grief as I learn of his passing, and that of his colleagues. I am honoured to have known such an individual so dedicated to giving hope to others. A true hero.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 06:00 PM by Amy Cosnowski

On behalf of Galens Medical Society, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims. While I personally never had the pleasure of working with the doctors or the transplant team, I know several of our medical student members have and that these students truly enjoyed their time spent on transplant surgery. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those involved.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:59 PM by Michelle DuBose

I met Richard while I was attending Eastern Michigan University and I must say that he was a joy to be around. Much time has passed since I last saw him and I was troubled deeply when I heard of the accident having known such a great person.

He will be missed tremendously and my prayers are with the Chenault family and the families of those who lost members and also the U of M family.

God Bless you all


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:57 PM by Opal Lesse' Nurse Practitioner

I have seen and felt the dedication of the Transplant staff and have observed and listened to these physicians teach and give advice on patient care and "life" to the interns,residents and nurses. Always ready, prepared for excellence to make sure that quality of life was the priority.

My prayers go the families for strength and understanding during this time. We will miss them for a long time. Their memory will be a Blessing for many.


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:55 PM by Felicia L. Daniel

My heartfelt condolences to the Chenault family and the rest of the grieving families. It is such a tragedy when those individuals, whose sole purpose in life was to "help and save," are taken away so soon.

God has acquired 6 new and wonderful ANGELS!


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:48 PM by Stela Cunegin

Richard Chenault II, a man that always had a sunshine smile.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:39 PM by Aubrey Hall

Dear Families,

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this especially difficult time. These men were valiant and honorable members of the University of Michigan community. May they rest in peace and may you always remember the happy times you shared.

-Aubrey Hall, Class of 2008


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:38 PM by Former Army flight medic/UMHS employee/student

UM is highly regarded worldwide for its outstanding emergency services, Survival Flight program, and transplant team, among other amazing specialists and caregivers in other departments. UM is also known for its heroes-both patients and clinicians. These men are, undisputably, heroes; and will always be remembered as selfless life-savers and life-givers. My very best to their families and the UM community.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:38 PM by Joan Heimler

The Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center Transplant Team and Surgical staff in Milwaukee mourn with you during this difficult time. Your colleagues were outstanding examples of lives dedicated to to others. The fact that they died while attempting to bring life to another is an example of the giving, selfless and integrity filled lives for which they will always be remembered. Our deepest condolences to their families, friends and coworkers.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:32 PM by Kim Zasa

I am deeply saddened by this incredible loss. I have known Richard Chenault for many years as an organ donation coordination specialist at Gift of Life Michigan. He had such a generous and gentle way about him, always making everyone around him feel so at ease. He was a very dedicated member of our transplant community and he will be sorely missed.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:31 PM by Jerry Hallead

To Everyone at the U of M Health System:

I did not know the doctors, the flight crew or Mr. Lapensee -- but I did know Richard Chenault II and he was a true hero and leader. He was a friend to everyone who came in contact with him and I will miss him.

My prayers and my heart go out to all of those who were aboard this fatal crash and, especially, to their families, friends and colleagues to whom they were especially close. May God provide His Solace and wrap them in His Peace, in the days and years to come.

We who are members of the University of Michigan Health Care System are sorrowed by our loss; but inspired to do even better in the future; following in the footsteps of these humble and heroic people whose only goal was to treat a tragic loss with graciousness and to help restore life to those who could be helped by their talents and efforts.

Each day we are all heroes to those we serve, no matter what capacity we are engaged in.

GO MICHIGAN HOSPITALS AND HEALTH CARE SYSTEM! GO BLUE!

With Deepest Sympathy for the loss of our Harvest Team --

Jerry Hallead, RN, Vascular Access Services Team, University Hospital and Mott Children's Hospital


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:13 PM by Marissa CastaƱeda, COO

On behalf of Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Administration in Edinburg, Texas, we would like to express our sincere condolences to all of the family and friends touched by the tragic crash involving the UM transplant team. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:13 PM by Joi Mclean

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Chenault family. I remember Richard as my youth leader at (SGC) church. He was a great leader. May God bless his family and all families of the other men that gave their lives. May he give them comfort and peace in this time of need. May God continually give the U-M Transplant Services Grace, Mercy, and Protection in their every day duties. God Bless

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:12 PM by John Karamichalis, MD

My condolences to the families of the victims.

John Karamichalis, MD, Specialist Registrar, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, England


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:06 PM by Leslie Smith and Lisa Kahl

We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the families and friends of the Survival Flight Team who lost their lives while trying to save another. Our team has supported the Surgery, Transplant, Emergency and Survival Flight areas for many years. Many of us have had the pleasure of knowing these heroic people, and supporting their work gives more meaning to our work. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the families, friends and co-workers of the victims of this horrible loss to our U of M community.

Leslie Smith and Lisa Kahl, MCIT Computer support


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 05:06 PM by Syvil Burke

On behalf of the Duke University Hospital transplant community, we would like to offer our condolences to the University of Michigan transplant community and to the families and friends affected by this tragedy. We hope that you will find comfort in knowing that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.

Syvil Burke, Transplant Administrator


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:59 PM by Karena Payden

Being new to the TICU I didn't have the privilege to really get to know Dr. Spoor. I can remember a time when my patient returned from OR, he began to have difficulties and David spent 2 hours trying to stablize him. Throughout my shift David would check in to get an update. Because of his compassion and dedication my patient survived and I am gratefull that GOD allowed me to have that encounter, it is a memory I will cherish. GOD bless and keep his family strong!

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:55 PM by Shirley Penn

I would like to send my deepest sympathy to the family of Richard Chenault II. I had the pleasure of interacting with him while working in the operating room. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:53 PM by DFP

As in the words of a Tracy Lawrence song:

For the love they live
for the love they die
no higher calling in this life
There's nothing they can't rise above
cause it's not about rich
it's not about poor
counting the cost
or keeping score
they do it for the love
He's in your heart
he's your best friend
he won't break
no he won't bend
look around you'll see
he's in each of us.

They were doing what they all believed in; helping another person to have a better life. There can be nothing more honorable than that. Peace to all of our lost friends and may God be with the families who are left behind to grieve and carry on. You are all in my prayers


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:52 PM by British Columbia Transplant Society

We are saddened by the loss of these fine individuals, who worked to save the lives of others. Our thoughts are with their families and friends at this difficult time. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

British Columbia Transplant Society


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:48 PM by Nancy Long

My thoughts and prayers are with not only the families of the Survival Flight, but also with the University of Michigan transplant teams and the entire University. I'm the transplant administrator at the Mid America Heart Institute in Kansas City - our heart team was at the donor hospital with your team. This is a tragedy in any case, but because these individuals were in the process of providing a second chance for others - it is doubly so. They are heroes in every sense of the word. Please know that your grief is shared throughout the transplant community.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:37 PM by ANGELA MAYER R.N.: REDONDO BEACH,CA.

Being an ex-member of the University of Michigan family for 11 years, 4 of which were on the cardiac thoracic unit, 4B-C, I have several great memories of Richard and Dr. Ashburn. They both were such a pleasure to work with. Richard Chenault always brought a smile to my face for many years. He truly was a great man and a great representation of the U. Dr.David Ashburn will always be remembered for his great Southern friendliness. He was always very approachable and always great to work with. To every family and friend of each of these individuals whose life was lost, you are in my prayers, and my extreme condolences go out to you! Their hard work will never be forgotten! God bless!

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:35 PM by Ede Fenick, MCV/VCU Transplant Research

Please accept my condolences to all affected by the tragic event involving the U.Mich. Organ Transplant Team. We feel especially close to your institution and transplant staff from working with y'all on studies. You're like family and we share in your grief.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:32 PM

I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those who have passed on. I didn't know any of them personally. Clearly, they were a talented group of people who were doing God's work. God bless them and keep their families comforted in such difficult times.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:28 PM by the staff of Health Information Management

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a little better; whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is the meaning of success."

- Anonymous

While the world has lost your presence, we are richer for your successes. Our sympathies go out to your loved ones.

From all the staff of Health Information Management


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:28 PM by Paul and Cheri Lynott

We wish to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the families who have lost a loved one. We truly know how your loved one's dedication is truly appreciated. My husband is a heart transplant patient and without people like your loved ones transplantation would not be possible.

To the donor family and patients waiting for the transplant, we are also very sorry for your loss.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

God Be With You.


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:25 PM by Dianna Martin

These men did not perish in vain. They died as so many American military men and women have died, making a difference, saving a life, working for a cause greater than their own life. When I reflect upon how they chose to lead their lives, I stand in admiration of each and everyone one of them. I am saddened they were taken away from their families, their friends, their co-workers and the University of Michigan. But the work they dedicated their lives to will go on because of them and the many other dedicated people who put themselves out there for each and every one of us. God bless them and their families!

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:25 PM

From the nursing staff at North Carolina Baptist Hospital in N.C.----remembering Dr Ashburn for his kindness to all and his expertise as a physician. To the family-----your loss is heaven's gain.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:22 PM by Shelly

My eyes are full of tears, and my heart is aching. You all were wonderful outstanding individuals and well respected. You were doing a job, a job well done. It is so sad to hear how short life can be. We wake in the morning not knowing which direction our life may take. I feel so sad when I read all the wonderful memories you have given us. I too want to leave memories. Richard, I remember your outstanding bedside manner with families and staff. You made a difficult time so much easier. Thank you six for your time here. Thank you for your impact on the human life. Thank you for your tireless and endless hours. Thank you for everything......

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:21 PM by M Seely

On behalf of the Pacific Northwest Transplant Bank and the transplant programs at Oregon Health & Science University, I extend our deepest condolences to everyone impacted by this tragedy. May solace and comfort arise for everyone during this difficult and painful time.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:13 PM by Lynne Gallison

Eternal Embracing: In Memoriam of Our Own

Heroes no less, they captured heights 'n' heavens unseen, skyriders of hope for us


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:12 PM by MJ O'Kelley

This is one of the most horrific things that can happen to a community of people who care for others everyday. This will cause us to stumble but we will not fall in our mission to give aid and comfort to our patients. We will continue to live in the way these people who gave their all to help others have shown us. May God Bless and comfort those closest to these wonderful, devoted, care givers.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:08 PM by LifePoint - Organ Donor Services for South Carolina

Our condolences to the families and colleagues of these fallen heroes. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are extended to their families as well as to those who loved and worked with these dedicated individuals.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:06 PM by Rev. Joel F. Beam Chaplain UMHS (Retired)

I join the many who have expressed their condolences and shared their memories of the Survival Flight victims. I worked with Richard Chenault on several occasions when I was a Chaplain on the Pastoral Care Staff. He was a genuinely gifted individual who touched the lives of all he encountered including mine. I count myself richer for having known him. My thoughts and prayers go to his family as well as to the families of the others who perished in that crash.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 04:03 PM by K Canavan RN

My deepest sympathy to all families of those involved in this tragedy. I had the great pleasure of working with Dr. David Ashburn at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in the operating room. While doing his CT rotation, he gave us great laughs and moments we still talk about to this day. Those of us at the Medical Center that knew David have all been touched by his laughter. Our prayers are with you all.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:57 PM by Jessica Hungerford 6D

I know that Richard Chenault will be remembered fondly by all the girls (many of them are now grown with careers and families) who ran track and cross country at FGRHS. Although, I never had the guts to run for Richard, he remembered me from my student days at FGRHS and when I became a nurse at U of M. My sister and her friends ran track for Richard from 2001-2005 and tell me that there were 3 men in their lives: God, their father, and their coach (Richard). Richard, none of those girls ever forgot your pre-prom behavior talk! My heart and prayers go out to Mitzi and all of Richard's family and friends as well all those who lost loved ones in the accident.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:52 PM by Peter Ehrlich

Our thoughts from my family are with yours.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:51 PM by Cathy R. Smith

I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy to the families, co-workers, and friends of those who perished on Monday. It will take time to heal from this trauma but with God - All things are possible. I have to believe something good will come from this. If nothing else, our community will be enlightened on the serious need for organ donors. Our team taught us to consider others more than ourselves and they departed this earth fulfilling their life mission. I'm grateful for their life's work.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:48 PM by Frank Chase, MD

I had the great privilege and blessing of training in general surgery with Dr. David Ashburn at Wake Forest. He was a unique individual whose memory I cherish. His commitment to cardiac surgery was unsurpassed. The day he showed up for internship (before he had tied his first knot) he was well on his way to mastering the complex physiology of pediatric heart surgery as well as its rich history. He also possessed the rare trait of utter commitment to surgery training without abandoning the higher priorities of God and family.

It seemed to me that David was destined to pioneer significant advances in the field of pediatric heart surgery. I fully expected that some day I would read about David in the NY Times given his talents and dedication. How tragic to see his name in the news under these circumstances.

Candace, David's children, and his parents should be proud of his many accomplishments not the least of which is the enrichment that many of us received through knowing him. I thank God for such a man. May all of us better emulate David as he sought to emulate the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.


Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:45 PM by Pam Cittan

We remember you as rays of sunshine that serve to bring light and warmth to our world. May you all rest in peace.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:43 PM by Nancy Ventimiglia

I met Mr. Richard Chenault when he did a presentation at my U of M new employee orientation. He was one of the speakers on that day. I even had the honor to speak with him after his presentation. One could feel that he was a very nice and pleasant individual. I was shocked, when I saw his picture in the newspaper, and that he was involved in this tragic accident. My condolences and may God bless his family.

Posted Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 03:36 PM by Matthew Murray

Survival Flight Staff,

I cannot begin to express my sadness about the loss of your crew members. Although I have only been with the University since January, I have come to know and respect the incredible job that your entire team does. More people than just the University and the families and friends have experienced a loss in the past days. I know that there are hundreds of patients who are saddened by the loss of the people who played such a large role in saving their lives.

It has been an honor serving alongside your staff and I look forward to serving with you for a long time to come.

Sincerely,

Ofc. Matthew Murray #550, University of Michigan Department of Public Safety, Hospital Security.


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