Looking Beyond the Storm

By Dr. Robert J. Bray

We recently experienced Super Storm Sandy and, needless to say, there has been a tremendous amount of destruction. However, as with many catastrophes, there have been many good things come out of this. We have watched with amazement as those who have been affected the most have turned around and helped others. Help has come in so many ways from the very young to senior citizens. Everyone is pitching in and trying to make a difference.

Living on a barrier island close to Atlantic City, we were significantly hit by the storm, but because of everyone's efforts we have been able to rebound in a productive way. As with all situations like this, you have a chance to look at life in so many different ways.

I am very appreciative of how much orthodontics has given me. Orthodontics has impacted my life significantly through opportunities to see people, treat people, and see them later on in life. I think it is important as orthodontists to show our appreciation to the field and we can do this in one special way. At this point in time, only 237 individuals, or less than one percent of all AAO members, have made a Continued Commitment to the Specialty^® by including the AAO Foundation in their estate plans. More of us need to make this commitment to make certain the specialty improves as we move into the future.

At this time of year, please take a moment to reflect on your own positive experiences as an orthodontist. The AAOF is the one arm of the orthodontic association that continues to support the education of residents, research, and the education and support of our faculty. So, in essence it is the one arm of the AAO that makes sure orthodontics can continue to be what it has always been now and in the future.

We also know how important finances continue to be, particularly in education, where support from the outside is declining. If we want orthodontics to remain what it was when we came into the specialty, we must support it now.

So, my wish for this season is for each of us to be generous in our consideration of giving to the Foundation. Please make a planned gift to the AAO Foundation through your estate, giving whatever amount you can and using whatever giving vehicle (e.g., will/bequest, life insurance, trust, etc.) best suits your family and your circumstances.

After you have made the decision to include the Foundation in your estate plans, please inform the AAOF office (aaofevp@aaotho.org), so that you will be listed as a member of the Keystone Society and your action can inspire others. Please share this good news with us as soon as you make the decision.

Please join us by making a Continued Commitment to the Specialty^® by becoming a member of the Keystone Society today. Each year, Keystone Society members are listed in the Year in Review, as well as on the Foundation's website (www.aaofoundation.net).