{ from the editor } by Douglas Wyckoff, DDS • Editor


Thank Your Mentors M


entorship — whether intention- ally set up or spontaneously hap- pening because of close interac- tion with another person — can be useful in all aspects of our life.


I have been blessed over my lifetime to have several mentors who have helped guide me to the person I am today. Some of those situations were a result of preset programs intended to match mentors with those in need of mentoring; many others happened due to continued interactions with another colleague, friend or family member.


I must admit that with the latter type of mentoring, I didn’t realize it was occurring at the time. But, I always become cognizant of those afterward, when I reflect on the rela- tionship that was built between that person and myself.


In most of these situations, the person mentoring was doing so because they wanted to see the mentee be successful at whatever situation or issue was being presented. They were helping guide the mentee so they didn’t hit the same road bumps they had in prior experiences. Successful mentors are typically humble and unselfish.


Lately, I have been spending more time than usual reflecting on those I’ve had the pleasure to call mentor. So many wonderful memories come to mind when I recall each person. I think of the time I spent with these giving people and the lessons learned from them. I am so grateful and am trying to reach out and thank them.


A few weeks ago, I left an MDA Board of Trustees meeting in Jefferson City and was headed to Branson to spend some time with family. As I was traveling there, I began re- flecting on one of my “Organized Dentistry” mentors, Dr. John Hume. I met him original- ly at an after-hours hospitality suite during


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the UMKC School of Dentistry meeting. He took time to talk to me, and when our time that evening was ending, I told him if he ever needed anything to let me know, as I was willing to get active in the MDA.


I remembered shortly after that, sitting in the MDA House of Delegates listening to him give his presidential speech and describing his son asking him if he was going to his “Associo-Society” meeting. I remember him expressing his support for MDIS and explain- ing to me how important and useful that entity would be for me. I remembered him being everywhere during meetings, getting members to contribute to MODentPAC, for which he was very passionate and persuasive. He always reminded me of the importance of being active politically and being an active part of representing our profession. I remem- bered him nominating me for acceptance into the American College of Dentists and being there when I was inducted. He instilled in me the importance of the ACD and what it meant to be a member. I remember the talks about his family, community and church and his devotion to them. John always did things over the top, 110 percent, and he practiced what he preached.


As my trip that day progressed and I got closer to Springfield, I felt this need to stop and see him. I had received word a few days


prior that his health had been failing. I was fortunate enough to get in contact with Dee, his wife, and she welcomed me to stop in and see him. When I rounded the corner in the house where he was, I saw him sitting there with a big smile. He couldn’t speak but shook my hand. I know it had to be hard for him to not be able to talk, but we were able to exchange smiles and look deeply into each other’s eyes. As he sat there smiling and hold- ing my hand, I told him how appreciative I was of his friendship and mentorship over the years. I didn’t realize that was going to be the last time I saw him, as he passed two weeks later.


I am so glad I had the urge to go see Dr. John Hume that day. I am also glad that I was able to thank him for all he had done for me and for our profession. I know he has guided many colleagues across the state over the years and he touched a lot of hearts. As I have said to others recently, if I can accom- plish half of what Dr. Hume has done in his lifetime, I would feel successful.


John, Godspeed to you. Your guidance, friendship and mentorship will never be forgotten. Your legacy and dedication to our profession will always be remembered.


As this year comes to an end and a new one begins, take time to reflect on those who’ve helped you get where you are. Take time to thank them for helping, you won’t regret doing so.


Contact Dr. Wyckoff at editor@modental.org.


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