Inspiring events

I had a strong emotional reaction when I read Dr Gutkin’s Vital Signs in the February issue of Canadian Family Physician.1 Here I learned that 20 family physicians participated in the 2010 Olympic torch relay—a simple fact, but one with an enormous meaning.

It reminded me of when I attended the 50th anniversary celebration of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, where I witnessed the beautiful Declaration of Commitment ceremony and the commitment of Canadian family doctors to the principles and values of the College, to Canada, and to Canadians. It was a fantastic ceremony! It inspired an editorial I wrote in Atención Primaria, the journal of the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine, entitled “Canadá: medicina de familia. Crisis y respuesta,” in which I reflected upon the importance of rituals and symbols.

Now I see another ritual: carrying the Olympic torch— a symbol of an alliance in society and a message about the importance of a healthy lifestyle. I am inspired to write an article on this, in my opinion, historical event.

I am pleased once again to congratulate Dr Gutkin and the College for the brilliant strategies developed to overcome the general crisis in Canadian health services. Good luck and congratulations on your leadership.

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