CareMatters
Martin Kiernan MD 1948 – 2018
Marty was my husband, best friend, and confidante. He was a Family Physician of the finest sort, as well as a recognized leader in his profession. Over his 40+ year career, he trained over 150 family practice residents who carry on his legacy today. And while Marty cared deeply for his patients, residents, colleagues and friends, his significant life decisions unequivocally emanated from his love for and devotion to his family. Together we raised two wonderful girls. As his life partner, I developed a deep understanding of and empathy for the unique joys and challenges of being a physician. Once after returning from a retreat, he mentioned that participants were asked how they would most like to be remembered. True to his down-to-earth nature, his was “He cared and it mattered.” Marty, as well as his powerful epitaph, is the inspiration for CareMatters.
Known for his direct approach and quick wit Marty lived by what he called his
"Rules of Life"- If it ain’t broke, anticipate what would happen if you break it first.
- It is best to work from the position that It’s not necessarily your fault, but it is your problem.
- Fair and equal are not the same thing.
- If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember what you said.
- It is likely that the best problem to attack is that which kicks back the hardest.
- At all times use your best judgment.
- Treat people fairly,
- Be a friend.
- There is value to tradition.
- Having a clear sense of your own values is not the same thing as being rigid.
- It’s okay to say “I don’t know.”
- Be ware of the tyranny of the majority.
- A sure recipe for disaster:. Believe what you hear and repeat it.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff!
How will you be remembered?
What are your Rules of Life?
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