The ‘Silent Minority’

Furthermore, it authors authoritative manuscripts and position papers on current diagnostics and therapies for vascular disorders.

Let me assure you, the Society for Vascular Surgery bears little resemblance to that original Society Becky inherited. Through her efforts, and the tireless silent work of many vascular surgeons and office staff, we are now the beneficiaries of this amazing organization. But it still has much more to offer and more goals to achieve. Most importantly it needs to increase public recognition of what we do as vascular surgeons and why patients should entrust their vascular health to us rather than some of the other specialists involved in delivering vascular care.

In the ensuing months Ron Fairman, Clem Darling, and Bruce Perler, three of our most tireless “minority” will select volunteers to serve on the various SVS committees. Many members have already volunteered but I urge all to consider helping. If not now, perhaps next year. And please consider making a donation to our Political Action Committee. It may be true that many practitioners either don’t have the time or the interest to pursue such positions. Some may feel that even if they serve they will not have the power to make a significant change that could positively affect our lives or those of our patients. I fervently believe that is not the case! The more volunteers and donors, the better the chance that vascular surgeons will no longer be seen as a silent minority but rather the outspoken leaders in the field. n