Bayani Ignacio, MD, FACS

10/23/22

Hi Hernan,

Phil ask me to evaluate and comment on our recent celebration as I saw it. “OUTSTANDING” is the description !

We initially went to NoyPitz for a casual reception – it was a hard place to find but that was a minor problem. The place is packed, they have to add  extra tables because of the non stop arrival of more guests. Food was a typical Filipino  of passable quality. I saw previous members who have not been with us for a long time. We were like old soldiers with never ending pleasant war stories during the height of the SPSA years. We were pleasantly surprised by Dr Aimee “Mama Mia” Mabini’s rendition of that song to the delight of everyone. There was a decent representation of the Canadian Mission who are familiar with some of our members who participated with the CMMS. They distributed a well done, very informative Souvenir Journal. Everyone left with a smile and a twinkle in their eyes.

Next day – came the main event. Very impressive black tie, long gown affair just like the old times. The Emperor Ballroom was decently occupied by a substantial number of guests. The committee handled themselves extremely well ( they must have rehearsed it well), the program went on smoothly  and not boring at all. Of course the war stories continued on with people table hopping to renew acquaintances. I am telling you it is something to behold. We (the old soldiers) were with our beloved wives who are almost in the same vintage but I noticed that there were some younger looking female partners whom I am scared to ask who they were.

Rolly Mendiola have not at all lost his usual singing talent and he did it again with gusto. Again Dr. Aimee “Mama Mia” Mabini was there in support. We thank these gutsy people. The dancing went on with somewhat measured steps by the Octogenarians . Oyo Cruz delivered his usual intelligently crafted remarks.

Finally comes your message which I am delighted to deliver. I had a few ad lib sentences before your message as follows:  Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the hardest task I will be undertaking since I will deliver this after all of you have partaken a chunk of roast beef and have been dancing for a couple of hours. I am not particularly an outstanding public speaker but I will try to impart the inspirational and emotional intent of Hernan’s message.. Our founder Hernan Reyes is a Professor Emeritus in Surgery, Dean of a Medical School, Head of Dept. of Surgery of Cook County Hospital. Most certainly an outstanding accomplishment for a Physician much more of Filipino ethnicity.—–then your message was delivered. I was amazed that everyone was quiet but not asleep but listening as if they were really waiting for what you have to say. This is how I felt that truly the esteem and respect that the Society have granted on you is obviously infinite.   That ended my portion of the task and the rest is history

Iggy (quite long winded but I am inspired by the Celebration)