This issue explores not simply medical missions and the international work of students and alumni but the power of “one.” One person, one hand, one sense of responsibility, and the corresponding and remarkable determination to respond. No excuses.

Healthcare disparities abound, and solutions exist but seem beyond our power – or sometimes willingness– to affect. Although no one featured in the pages of this magazine has single-handedly solved any of these inequities, they are, indeed, part of the solution.

New Director of International Health Education Alan Barber, D.D.S., Michael Lockwood, D.O., ’81, Edward Cho, D.O., M.P.H., ’01, and the other change agents profiled here act with compassion, act from the heart, and act from some deeper part of themselves that compels them to do for others. Sitting on the sidelines talking about change isn’t enough. They are the change.

Not only are they working to positively impact the health and environments of the underserved, they also realize the power of such an experience on medical students and residents, who increasingly are demanding exposure to international healthcare and to help those in need.

Of course, their good intentions come with real sacrifice, which is something Peter Kankaka, PA, ’08, featured on page 24, understands intimately. Having grown up in Uganda, Kankaka worked his way to the West, and after gaining acceptance to ATSU-ASHS attended class full time while working more than an hour away from the school and sleeping in his van in ASHS’ parking lot until he found a roommate.

Kankaka’s dream, however, doesn’t end with his degree. His long-term plan is to open a medical clinic in his home country and improve the health of those less fortunate.

No excuses.

Kathryn Stroppel, B.J.

Editor, Still Magazine