Doctor Hector Collison
The call came in Saturday, late afternoon or early evening, as I was getting ready for work. No early six O'clock news cause of basketball games. It was JR on the other end. JR is really Doctor Joseph Robinson, my frat brother and more importantly my cardiologist. He sounded serious. It can't be my bad news. I had passed a physical months ago and now my only health problem was coping with arthritic hips that ended my running career and made me go out and buy a road bike.
JR's mood is somber...he doesn't get to the point soon enough though. Finally.."Do you remember Hector Collision..the other physician who was in the emergency room when you were flown in by helicopter with your heart attack? How could I forget the guy who along with JR had saved my life! "Hector was killed last night when his plane went down with his son also in it".
I'm stunned. A Howard University Medical school phenom Collison had "blown up" as physicians can...he had several offices, business ventures, hundreds of grateful patients who continue to be productive because of his skilled hands. Collison had just bought his dream home in Potomac. He loved flying and kidded JR who refused to go up with him...
He was really on what could be considered a short commute when he left BWI Thurgood Marshall to pick his son up and fly him home for spring break.
I had already been to two funerals this week. As I now prepare for another-Hector Collison and his son Sean--I am reminded of the question I asked myself when my life was saved with the help of those doctors at the Washington Hospital center some years ago--
So now what are you going to do with the rest of your life?
posted by Bruce Johnson @ 10:38 PM
32 comments
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32 Comments:
What you do with your life is live it! Do everything that you can to enjoy it and never let anyone tell you that something can't be done. If they do, then find a way to make it happen. That is the advise that Dr. Collison gave me and that is what I believe in. Dr. Collison was a man who loved life and loved family. He was a very caring and giving man who was always there whenever you needed him. He was an excellent physician who loved his patients. It is a terrible tragedy and I am overwhelmed with saddness. Although I will miss him, I know that he will remain in my heart pushing me and supporting me.
Love,
TNP
WHAT YOU DO WITH YOUR LIFE IS LIVE IT ! LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST, ENJOY EVERY SECOND OF IT AND NEVER LET SOMEONE TELL YOU THAT IT CAN'T BE DONE. WHEN THEY SAY IT CAN NOT BE DONE, FIND ANOTHER WAY TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. THAT WAS DR. COLLISONS ADVISE TO ME AND THAT IS WHAT I BELIEVE. DR. COLLISON WAS A MAN WEHO LOVED LIFE AND THAT INCLUDED HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HE WAS AN AMAZING PHYSICIAN AND WONDERFUL FRIEND. ALTHOUGH I WILL MISS HIM, HE WILL ALWAYS REMAIN IN MY HEART SUPPORTING ME THEY WAY HE DID EVERYDAY WHEN HE WAS WITH US. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY.
I was shocked by the news about Dr. Collison and his son, I was privileged to work with him. He was a very kind, humble and a highly skilled Cardiologist.
" I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."
2 Timothy 4 : 7-8
My prayers are with the family and friends of Dr. Collison
Love,
JN
Dr. Collison cae into our lives on a different level - with regards to his son who died with him, Sean. Sean and one of his younger sisters were students at The Newport School in Silver Spring for only one year, but he touched all of our lives. He leaves behind friends and teachers that probably lost touch with him, but are now shocked and saddened by his and his father's passing. All we can feel right now is sadness and loss but we want to pass onto Sean's family our deepest, deepest sympathy for their unimaginable loss. The Collisons will always be in our thoughts - once a Newport Tiger, always a Newport Tiger! We'll miss you, Sean!
- Newport Staff and Families
I had the privilege to work with both Dr. Collison and Dr. Robinson at the end of my third year of medical school. Dr. Collison was an extremely bright physician whose gifts and success were inspiring. I am sure he will be deeply missed by all of his patients and his staff. Just two months away from graduation, the lesson I take from this is that life is indeed short, and I can only hope to positively impact as many lives as he was able to.
He will be missed he saved my Dad's life twice and was a friend of are family.
He was a great doctor. I remember the day he told me I would be just fine!!!
HI BRUCE, WHAT DO YOU DO WITH YOUR LIFE NOW?
YOU THANK GOD FOR GIVING YOU ANOTHER CHANCE TO LIVE BY ACKNOWLEDGING HIM AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR. THEN SPREAD THAT GREAT AND WONDERFUL NEWS, THAT SAYS JESUS DIED TO RECONCILE US WITH GOD OUR CREATOR AND GIVE US THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEND ETERNITY WITH HIM FOREVER WHEN WE DIE, TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS, CO-WORKERS, ACQUAINTANCES, FAMILY MEMBERS AND EVERYONE THAT CROSSES YOUR PATH.
GOD BLESS YOU
JE
I am a fortyseven year old male, who had the good fortune of meeting and being counseled by Dr. Collison, after a health scare. I subsequently lost 40 pounds, after his encouragement. I am now experiencing great health due to his efforts. I send my prayers to his family and may God bless his soul and that of his son sean.
Ty
I learned of Hector's death this evening. A classmate of mine heard it on TV and then read about it in the newspaper. He didn't know Hector ,could only remember his last name.I said You can't mean Hector Collison! Unfortunately he did. I had the pleasure of meeting Hector when he was a resident physician. His mother and aunt would have these fabulous and sometimes impromtp parties at their house. People of all ages, sex,race and creed would there. There would be great philosophical discussions, poetry readings and musicians would drop by to finish off the night with an all night jazz jam sessions. What beautiful memories I have of Hector and his family. Martina P. Callum,MD
I have worked with Dr. C for 10 years now...his energy, drive, knowledge and love of life never ceased to amaze me. He was one of those remarkable people who, no matter how busy, always had time to help a friend or colleague and was happy to do it! He was the hardest working man I have known, yet he somehow found time to have fun after working 18 hour days. We can all learn from this man's work ethic and character. He believed in so many people and aspired them to do their best. So many credit their success to him. So in response to your question "what to do with the rest of your life?" Live by Dr C's motto..."Work hard, live good in the big city."
Farewell Dr. C you will never be forgotten!
HH
Mr. Johnson, I was the tech scrubbed in with Dr. Collison on your case some years back. He was like a daddy to me He always made me laugh even when I was tried, Or it had been a long day in the cath lab. He will sorely be missed not walking through the 4th floor cathlab at Washington hospital center. Inadditon Dr. Collison would not want us to grieve for to long. Every moment of is life was filled with LIFE!!!!!!
We met Dr Collison almost 20 years. He has been a great friend to us.We would never be able to replace him. We are deeply saddened by this loss.We are grateful that God had put him in our lives.Though short,very short time with us, he will never be forgotten. We will always live by philosophy" LIVING GOOD, WORKING HARD, LIFE IN THE BIG CITY".
His legacy will always live on..
DS
He was my best friend, A wonderful man. You could depend on him for advise and a solution to almost everything. God wanted an angel. You will always be in my heart. I miss him deeply. God Bless you Dr. Collison! You have impacted many lives in a wonderful way.
I was a patient not long ago and due to him, I am more aware of my health and have confidence because of my trust in his wisdom. I am privilged to have known him, but for a short time, and can appreciate how much humanity others received through their association with him, no matter how long their association. He will be missed by those he touched with his demeanor, humor, knowledge, and by those who learn of him through others.
I met Dr. Collison 16 years ago as a patient. I not only had a new doctor, but I had also gained a new friend!
He was firm with me, yet gentle...'he was wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove'!!!
My husband and I are praying for his wife and family for strength and comfort. To them we say that "weeping may endure for a night", but JOY comes in the morning" during this very difficult time!
I was married 8 years ago and Dr. Collison thought so much of our relationship that he had a large picture of us displayed in his office for all to see. We were so honored!!!
We both cannot express the sadness and loss of such remarkable, a soft spoken, loving, joyful, peaceable, kind, longsuffering, gentle, disciplined man who was good and meek, very humble.
This will have a great impact on our lives.
Thank you for allowing me to share some of my thoughts.
Pastor Little & LDL
Dr Collison was my mother's cardiologist-he was the most wonderful doctor I have had the pleasure to meet. He was so gentle and kind with all his patients, never a harsh word at anytime. He loved life and we as Jamaicans adopted him as one of our own. He frequently visited Jamaica and loved our food. His death has left a deep sadness in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace and our heart-felt sympathy to his family.
YG and JE
My heart sank Monday morning as I prepared for work and had an ear open listening to the news on TV. Dr Collison has been my cardiologist for 10 yrs. He treated his patients as friends who he sincerely cared about. He made himself available to his patients as they needed. To the family of Dr. Collison, my prayers of comfort I offer to you at this difficult time.
2 Cor 1:3-4
God Bless you.
G. Johnson
My heart sank Monday morning as I prepared for work and had an ear open listening to the news on TV. Dr Collison has been my cardiologist for 10 yrs. He treated his patients as friends who he sincerely cared about. He made himself available to his patients as they needed. To the family of Dr. Collison, my prayers of comfort I offer to you at this difficult time.
2 Cor 1:3-4
God Bless you.
G. Johnson
To my friend for life--While I realize this is a tragic life for so many family members, individuals, and communities, I want you to know how very sorry I am for your personal loss. This can't be easy to accept, but what an awesome gift he gave you -- obedience to his purpose which resulted in renewing your life. Perhaps what we do with our lives is recognize our unique purpose and design and live accordingly.
Laugh Often, Live Long, Love Much.
KC
I was referred to Dr. Collison last year by a freind and respected physicain. He showed me both care and concern--calmed down when I had my cath done....his gentle voice and smile "jsut close your eyes and relax, it will over before you know it." It's time for my 6 month check-in with Dr. Collison and he's gone. He, Sean and the entire family are in my prayers.
Hector, we still can't believe that you are gone. I was absolutely shocked to see your picture and and hear about this tragedy on the 6PM news on Sunday. I immediately picked up the phone to call my Mom and Dad in Ghana to tell them this devastating news. I have always admired your dedication to our family, your friends, and your patients. You took such great care of my Grandma/your Aunt, H. Collison and we are forever greatful to you. Thanks for having such a HUGE HEART Dr. Hector Collison. We love you and we will miss you and Sean dearly. Rest in peace til we meet again.
Love,
A. Nee-Amartey
(Mercy & Sam's Daughter)
There are hardly words to say...I worked for Hector in the Annapolis/Bowie office for a few years and on Saturday when I recv'd the call from my friend Mel who also worked there I started shaking. Hector was the kind of PERSON who would help anyone and everyone and loved doing it, when a patient came to him for help he made sure they got the care they needed even if they had no money to pay him.I had the [leasure of meeting Sean a few times when he was younger, We haven lost a Jewel. may GOD be with his family. I will miss you Hector the Director
Our family met the Collison family years ago, in church. Many years had passed and I had the blessing of being referred by AAMC to Dr. Collison. He was so kind and re-assuring during my time of concern. I'll not forget his excellent care and concern for my wellness and state of being. My wife, Suzy and I remember Sean when he was just a little fellow. We are praying for Connie and the whole family. Dr. Collison and Sean will be remembered with the fondest of thoughts. We will keep Connie and the Family in prayer.
Hector was a family friend long before becoming Dr. Collison. He and his cousin Mike went to Fisk with my brother. Our family followed their progress through medical and law schools. Hector treated many family members and saved my father's life on more than one occasion. He is my nephew's godfather. I say IS because now my nephew has his very own personal angel guiding him for the rest of his life.
My prayers go out to the family and friends of such a wonderful man.
We do just what the Great Doctor did we live life as if there is no tomorrow. We love and respect one another just and never put off today for tomorrow. Dr. Collison was the one of the Great ones. I don’t think we will ever find another Dr. Collison, he was there for his patients and treated all of us with the best of care, he would show the kind of care we wanted from a doctor. When I visited his office I looked forward to seeing him bounce into the exam room with his beautiful smile and I knew all would be well. Now all is well with his soul. I will never forget him and will be eternally great full for all he has done for me. We loved him but God Loved Him Best. May you find joy in the arms of the almighty father.
I pray God will wrap his arms around the family of Sean and Dr. Collison.
A Very great full patient.
SM
Dr. Collison did an annual cardio workup on me last year, as well as the year before. I was just talking about him a couple of days ago to a relative who was also his patient. Yesterday, I heard that he was dead. I was shocked. I couldn't believe it. I am so saddened.
I loved Dr. Collison. He was my doctor for 20 years. I was 18 years old when I met this wonderful man. I was diagnosis with a heart murmur. He always made me feel at ease. He talked about his kids. I remember last year he was telling me about his son and basketball. Dr. Collison was not just my doctor, but a true friend. I had just say him about 2 weeks ago. He wanted me to lose some weight. My prayers go out to his family. To lose a son and husband this is unthinkable.
May 17, 1997, is when i had my heart attack to say that was one of the best things that happen to me would sound crazy, but that is when i met hector collison at Anne arundel general hospital he walked into the dark and glommy room and brought with him the light of life just like all the other thousand of people he touched my heart and saved my life. As we became friends i expressed to him i was a nobody. a thug on the street who couldnt pay him the money i owned him. but he said we are not worrying about that now we gotta get your life in order. after he got my health together he took me to dinner while setting in the resturant i told him i wish i could be like him.he told me i should not want to be like him i should take the hand that has been delt to me and be what i want to be.he encouraged a street thug to go after what he wants i fisrt formed a boys and girls club call it neet and klean because that is what we were trying to make our children. I aimed for the problemed children in the neighborhood. Hector supported me finically in helping me take children to picnics, the blacks and wax musesum, the smithsonian ,brought reading materals. i had mad a big differnce in these childrens lives and when i wanted to introduce them to director he would always say "no thats okay you the man." this ex- thug now owes a small cab company in annapolis and my own home all because Hector touched my heart and now im working hard and living good so Mr.Johnson like so many others i to say thank you to Hector Collison my hero
The life is full of surprises.
Today is exactly 12 years as I've had my angioplasty made by
Dr. Collison and just today I lern that he past away on March 15th.
He was gifted from
God like a Person and a Doctor.
He was my Doctor and my Friend.
I wrote the words: Person, Doctor
and Friend with capital letters,
because he was was a very kind,
nice, gentle person, always with a sense of humor and a shiny smile.
A talented Doctor with a big, sensitive, caring heart.
Everybody who used to know him,
loves him very much and the rest of their lives will be thankful
to him for his role in their lives,
and for saving them.
It's very sad that we never again see him, but he still alive in our hearts as long, as we live.
My deep sympathies to his family.
God give them strength.
With love and best memories.
Boris.
05/28/08
The life is full of surprises.
Today is exactly 12 years as I've had my angioplasty made by
Dr. Collison and just today I learn that he past away on March 15th.
He was gifted from
God like a Person and a Doctor.
He was my Doctor and my Friend.
I wrote the words: Person, Doctor
and Friend with capital letters,
because he was a very kind,
nice, gentle person, always with a sense of humor and a shiny smile.
A talented Doctor with a big, sensitive, caring heart.
Everybody who used to know him,
loves him very much and the rest of their lives will be thankful
to him for his role in their lives,
and for saving them.
It's very sad that we never again see him, but he still alive in our hearts as long, as we live.
My deep sympathies to his family.
God give them strength.
With love and best memories.
Boris.
05/28/08
HI
Some medicines are very helpful for human and his health is bieng early fine and he felt very fine and good.
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