Rosemary Bray, Consultant

As a thirty year team member in this great profession of ours, I became a full time orthodontic speaker and consultant 8 years ago. With this distinction came the nomination to be a member of the Board of Directors of the AAOF. Subsequently with this appointment to the Board, I was able to learn so much more about what the AAOF is and does and how it helps young doctors to learn, study, do research and become better, more qualified orthodontists once out of their ortho programs.

It was because of this greater understanding that I chose to become a member of the Keystone Society and have it written into my estate plans that a portion of my estate would be allotted to the AAOF to further the education and research for tomorrow's young orthodontists. I want to give back in one more way to a profession that has been giving to me, in countless ways, for the past 38 years.

I was that patient years ago whose life was changed by the profession and I share this openly in my lecturing around the country. After 4 long years of wearing full bands on every tooth, I was finally able to smile without cupping my hand over my mouth and feeling hesitant or embarrassed. No price tag can be put on that feeling and anyone who has felt that transformation themselves, understands what that means. This enhanced self esteem then subsequently edged me towards a lifelong career in this wonderful profession.

I currently have 3 small grandchildren and they all will be needing (and receiving) ortho treatment to enhance their lives and smiles. It is my plan to fund that treatment for each of them as my personal gift to them. I want to be sure that the Doctor who treats them is well taught with the best possible technology, research and professional education. By all of us contributing to this endeavor, we help to guarantee that for all of our children and grandchildren.

I am not a Doctor, receiving a Doctor's income: for 30 years I was the "staff member" on the staff member's paycheck. My commitment to orthodontics extends beyond my income and current "job title" of consultant. I am indebted to our entire profession. Being a Keystone Member is one more way I can show that indebtedness and commitment. In recently updating my will, I had each of my three adult children sign an agreement form which I wrote up stating that they understand that a portion of my estate upon my death will be going not to them but to the profession of orthodontics. They of course signed in full agreement, chuckling, "That is not at all surprising to us, Mom. We support your love for what you do every day."

May each of us who have been given a career that is fun, fulfilling and rewarding on a daily basis look deep into our selves and decide what is important and how we will give back or "pay it forward" to generations beyond us. This is one small way I am able to do just that. As I laughing tell my colleagues and friends, "I am worth more to Orthodontics dead than I am alive." I sure hope that one is not true...

Rosemary Bray