A Heart of a True Champion...

"His accomplishments did not go to his head, but went to his heart." These words were expressed by Mom during a tribute to our dear beloved Uncle Charles' at his funeral last Saturday. Over 200 family, friends, colleagues, and community members who I am sure was touched by Uncle Charles in some way attended the service. Although it is a time of great sadness for the family, it is a joyous time for him because he is in no more pain.

Prior to attending the funeral, I attended a conference in Kentucky where I acknowledged and dedicated my presentation to Uncle Charles. He was very passionate about wellness and communities eliminating disparities in healthcare and achieving parity. Uncle Charles is only one of the few doctors I have met that was more concerned about people than his title. He would greet people with a smile and a handshake with a special "doctor touch" as my mom stated. Regardless of obstacles he faced, he was persistent and sought to win over people who made his work difficult. Uncle Charles was known for his legendary smile, a jolly chuckle, and his commitment to his family and work. I remember the many conversations we had about strategies to use to encourage communities who were disenfranchised to take charge of their health. I never thought that I would have to move forward in this momentous work alone. I always knew that he would be near for me to gain wisdom and knowledge on how to "market" health and wellness in a palatable way for people to receive.

Uncle Charles was surrounded by beloved family and friends at the time of his death. I called my aunt Jeanie one hour prior to his death. My brother, John, called me several hours after my call that he past away. I later heard that there was singing and laughter about the good times accompanied with prayers and tears. The tears were not from Uncle Charles though. He was smiling the entire time because he knew that he was walking straight into the arms of his Lord, Jesus Christ, the One who comforted him during his 14-months with cancer and his entire journey in this game we call "life." Not once did he complain or say anything negative. I believe that he was called to teach us how to be a humble servant in his living and a true warrior, a champion in his death.

I made a slideshow presentation for Aunt Jeanie and my three cousins, Liz, Kathy, and David Charles to celebrate the life of a person that they were proud to call husband and father. I am blessed to have a uncle who encouraged me to be inquisitive and to give as much as I could to a community even when they don't always understand what's important. Uncle Charles left a great legacy. I know that he will always be remembered for his loving spirit, his courageous battle with cancer, and his servant heart for the community he served.

Continue to be a "servant healer" Uncle Charles. Until we meet again....