Being mentored is like being a leaf on a fall day.

You’re floating and suddenly a gentle breeze lifts you. It may be an imperceptible breeze, like a smile or a nod or a “you’re doing a good job.” But it lifts you higher and carries you further than ever before.

My career path has been blessed by many breezes that shaped, supported, and stimulated me as a young investigator. While a “thank you” does not suffice, being able to “pay forward” to the next generation of students, residents, and fellow whom I have been fortunate to work with is one form of gratitude.

My father was my first mentor. Certainly, he was patient with my mistakes, offering gentle redirection and reassurance. My children became my first mentees. Yet I soon realized that the roles were fluid. I learned more from them than they could from me, and together we formed breezes that lifted each other.

The Urology Care Foundation has provided the critical infrastructure and resources to support the successful mentorship and career development of many. I am humbled to be singled out for an award for which there are so many who are more deserving.