[mdphd] ICYMI

[Andrea Cifonelli]

Good morning,

Last Thursday, I prepared a brief message for the MD/PhD student body, which was given at the beginning of Grand Rounds on Thursday. I realize many didn’t hear it. With the heaviness of this past month and having to navigate grief in our heats, I wanted to make sure we take a moment to acknowledge the emotional turmoil.

Four years ago on a Grand Rounds Thursday, I learned of the loss of my best work bud, Dan. It was sudden and tragic. You were all there for me, and the words that came to me that evening were words I wished I said to my friend, and I think it’s a good time to remind you all: this world is a better place with you in it <3

Please be gentle with yourself and with each other, especially when things are hard. Grief and depression show up differently for everyone, and sometimes we have no idea what someone else is carrying. We are all worth every ounce of love, care, and support.

Best,

Andrea

Andrea Cifonelli (she/her)

Coordinator of Combined Programs and Special Initiatives
MD-PhD Program Coordinator
College of Graduate Studies
Upstate Medical University
w. 315.464.4541
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