Tribute to 2 superheroes

I feel the need to share a tribute for two grand people from my and many people’s “Most Unforgettable People List.”

The Bradford area is lessened by the recent loss of two superheroes to many of us. They touched thousands of lives with their quiet, professional, personal and powerful presence. I had the extreme pleasure of working with them while I was in administration at the 32-department, 160-bed Bradford Hospital in 1975-1980.

Dr. Anita Herbert, the Lady from Rew: I had many memorable instances with her, but one was extremely meaningful. She had the idea for the relocation of the emergency room, which initially was a relatively small space now known as the medical records area, to the former pediatrics area.

Having grown up in the Bradford area she had the foresight of knowing the value not only of emergency care but of having a point of entry for physical health care. She made these ideas known in her own demure yet forceful manner during the planning process.

Dr. Herbert was not only a board-certified internal medicine physician but, to me, she filled in as an older sister figure in many ways. I had many chats with her — and a few stern admonishments.

Dr. Widad Bazzoui, The Man From Baghdad: What an extremely appropriate name from my perspective, Wi”Dad”. He was there with fatherly suggestions when politics became predominant in discussions on policy. It was his idea to develop a mental health inpatient treatment unit. His passionate request was heeded by the board (especially with member Bob Habgood’s support).

Dr. Bazzoui understood the community and served us all well with thoughtful, non-judgmental musings and guidance as we wrestled with varied and frequent wants and opinions.

Both were physicians of the people and for the people. They provided respectful care with a strong understanding of community.

I, as one of many, had the pleasure of being guided and cared about by two of God’s true angels who spent and served their time on this Earth. They have earned every bit of the respect we as a community need to give, along with a very heartfelt thank you to their families for sharing them.

Amen, amen and amen.

Jay Scott Parisella, Bradford

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