To share your own thoughts and memories of Dr. Feigin, please use our SHARE A STORY form.
	William T. Shearer Connection: Co-worker Organization: Location: Story:     I went to the gravesite of the great man where a year ago the cortege of family, friends, and colleagues had emerged from long, black limousines on narrow cemetery streets to attend the graveside services led by a rabbi. That side of the road had no vertical monuments to mark the passing of loved ones, only flat, bronze plates with embossed names and vital statistics. I could not find the gravesite plate I was searching for and I tried to remember back a year to its approximate location. Dusk was coming on when I looked down at the ground in front of me to see a little plastic holder with the great man’s name in tiny letters; small stones encircled the sign. This was all that was left after a life of his teaching medicine to the world, yet thousands still carry his imprint in their lives. I wanted to say something out loud, but the quiet of the cemetery forbade it. “Why did you go?” I thought, “There was so much yet to do and repair.” There was no reply, only the muted rustle of the trees as the wind moved through. Frank Stowell Connection: Colleague Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Dr. Feigin's presence and leadership was a gift to all. Houston was very fortunate when he and his family landed here in 1977. His influence will be felt for many, many years. Special thanks to his family for sharing him and supporting his mission. Nicholas Keith Connection: Co-worker Organization: TCH Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Unfortunately, I never really got to really know Dr. Feigin. I shared two conversations with him, the first of which was introductory, and the second of which he addressed me by name. I know at least two years had passed in between. Although I spoke to him very little, I saw him many times. It seems that every time I saw him, he was walking alone – looking straight ahead with his hands in his coat pockets and carrying an aura with him that brought calm to me and to the area in which he roamed. I don't know about anyone else at Texas Children’s Hospital, but to me, it is as if he is still here somehow – roaming through each area of the hospital with his hands in his pockets, looking straight ahead, ready to accomplish his next mission. Texas Children’s Hospital will always be, and therefore so will he. Merle Connection: TCH Employee Organization: Location: Story:     I had a discussion about Dr. Feigin with my niece, a former Baylor student and a now practicing cardiologist in California, stating what I knew about his contribution to Texas Children’s Hospital. I also mentioned that I had seen the documentary profiling a day in Dr. Feigin's life and was in awe at the enormity of his schedule and how much he accomplished in his fast-paced agenda. She immediately stated, “Everything I know about pediatric medicine, I learned from Dr. Feigin. He's brilliant." Christine Maurer Connection: Organization: Location: Story:     Dr. Feigin's ‘way of being’ cemented me to Texas Children's Hospital. I miss him. maria perez Connection: Patient Family Member Organization: Location: houston, tx Story:     I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Feigin in 1990 when my son was very ill and had to stay in Texas Children’s Hospital for a month. During that time, Dr. Feigin would tell us how hard he was working to find a cure for my son, promising to get him home healthy. He would even stay up late at night to read his medical books. Dr. Feigin kept his word and cured my son. That’s something I will never forget. When Dr. Feigin passed, I told my son, “That man saved your life. We lost an angel.” I miss him a lot, but they say that God takes the best – and Dr. Feigin was. Kim Millar MD Connection: Student Organization: Location: Princeton, NJ Story:     Dr. Feigin is the reason I chose to be a pediatrician. I graduated from Baylor in 1984, and did my residency at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I then joined a private practice in Princeton NJ. About three-four years ago I was attending a Pediatrics conference in Miami, FL, and my husband and I headed out to the beach just as Dr. Feigin was returning from a run. I said hello to Dr. Feigin, introduced myself and mentioned that I had gone to Baylor, and he gave me his famous, ear to ear smile and said, "I know." How did he remember me, from a 6 week rotation, 20 years ago? I do know that I will never forget him. The world has lost a gem of a man, and I am saddened to know that he is gone. May his family find comfort in knowing how profoundly he affected the lives of others in an inspirational, supportive, genuinely caring way. Boris Gritzka Connection: Former resident Organization: Location: Austin, Texas Story:     When I received the handshake I did not know it was "the Feigin handshake". I learned about it later and will remember it forever. It was one of the ways the man showed his knowledge of people, his amazing instinct, his wisdom in making good choices. But even more amazing to me is how he continued to carry this handshake through the years when I was a resident, remembering each one of us by name, remembering personal details, anecdotes and most important, caring for all of us! Thank you Dr. Feigin for giving me the opportunity as a foreign medical graduate to be a resident in this amzing program and helping to make me the Pediatrician and human that I am today! Pam Carmain Connection: Physician Organization: Location: Houston Story:     Dr. Feigin's death has left a huge, gaping hole in the world, in so many ways. He was an amazing physician, a gifted teacher, an avid athlete and a wonderful person. As I read the tributes, those themes are a common thread. I wanted to share a favorite story that has nothing to do with medicine. When I was a resident, I attended a Pediatric conference in Hilton Head, SC and Dr. Feign invited me to go for a run with him. Although he always bragged about running 7 1/2 minute miles, I was dubious about his speed. I was confident that my youth(and height advantage) would prevail and I'd be able to accompany him without difficulty. We ran about 4 miles, together...I ran in normal fashion and he ran BACKWARDS, smiling and talking to me the entire time. He wasn't being cocky, he was just happy to have my company and was making accommodations for me so we could finish the run side-by-side. He was larger than life and too good to be true. Those are the qualities that make him irreplaceable. He will truly be missed, but will live on in all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. Karenna Versalovic ( Dr. Versalovic's Daughter) Connection: Daughter of colleague Organization: Location: Story:     When I was 6 my dad was walking us through the hospital one day and we saw Dr. Feigin. My dad said "this is Dr. Feigan". He said " No, you call me Ralph" And I will never forget that day. Mary Nell Suell Connection: Student Resident Organization: Texas Children's Cancer Center Location: Houston, TX Story:     I will always reflect upon and cherish the way that Dr. Feigin took a personal and heartfelt interest in my family and me. It’s truly amazing the effect that it has had on me-for Dr. Feigin to have taken the time to know me, and believe in me and tell me that the sky is the limit for me! (and continue to cheer me on towards reaching that sky, many years beyond my residency)… I’ll never forget my interview with Dr. Feigin, the special handshake, the envelope for Baylor Pediatrics on Match Day, and hugging Dr. Feigin in person there for a photograph. I have had this picture in my office ever since. I remember the first time I presented a case at Feigin Rounds-I think he could tell that I was nervous, and he delayed jumping into the case by cracking some jokes at the beginning. And winked at me a lot, in that kind manner that he is so well known for. He understood people for where they were, even when words were not spoken. Needless to say, he made the diagnosis! I will spend my life as a student of Dr. Feigin and do my best to share my lessons learned with others. Dr. Feigin is my hero and I will continue to miss him everyday. Lydia Shrier Connection: Colleague Organization: Children's Hospital Boston Location: Boston, MA Story:     I had the great privilege of spending a month with Ralph Feigin as recipient of the Ralph D. Feigin Visiting Student Scholarship in 1993. Recognizing I was a little burnt out at the end of my 2nd year of pediatric residency at Yale, my chair Joe Warshaw suggested I apply for the opportunity to visit with Dr. Feigin. What could I possibly do with him for a whole month, I wondered. What DIDN'T I do was more like it!!! I started my days desperately trying to beat Ralph into the office. I was staying steps away, but no matter how early I got up, I would arrive at the office every morning to find Ralph seated at his desk, reading his own textbook to study for his subspecialty boards. The hours that followed flew by as I attended meetings, rounds, and conferences, as well as worked on a book chapter with him. Ralph's brilliance, warmth, and intuition never ceased to amaze me. I left Houston awed and inspired, having been rejuvenated and eager to return my training. Over the years Ralph and I were only occasionally in touch, but every time we were, he was warm and genuine. Just a few weeks before his death we emailed and I was once again touched by his thoughtful words. I will be forever grateful that I had the chance to spend some time with this remarkable man. Amanda Brack Connection: former resident Organization: Location: Houston, tx Story:     I was initially so intimidated to come to Baylor for my residency and was shocked when I learned that he wanted me to be there. The intimidating atmosphere, however, was short lived due to Dr. Feigin's warmth and congeniality. He made me feel as if I had always been there. He is amazing for many reasons; but to have such a combination of genuine personal concern and sheer brilliance makes him more unique than any. I definitely would not be where I am without his influence in my life, and I truly consider my time at Baylor with him to be a huge honor. He and Judy created such a loving family atmosphere. I am quite sure that no other residents anywhere have experienced this kind of support and enthusiasm. My thoughts and prayers go up for Judy and her family. Leslie Harris Connection: Colleague Organization: BCM/TCH Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I learned of Dr. Feigin's passing while on vacation. I want to share my story of Dr. Feigin here to give another illustration of what a wonderful person he was, as all of us know. I came to first meet Dr. Feigin when I was hired in 1995 to work in the PICU as a PCA. I took this job for a year because it allowed me to pay some expenses while finishing up additional pre-med classes and taking the MCAT after college (I was a late-comer to medicine so had to take post-bac courses). I remember every morning at 6:45 AM Dr. Feigin and I would get to the West Tower elevators at about the same time, and every morning he would say hello to me and ask me how I was. It took me almost a whole year to realize that he was the chief of the hospital because I could not believe that someone in his position would pay such kind attention to me. When I finally got to medical school I experienced some very difficult family and personal problems, and these issues played a very problematic part of my life for many, many years. In fact, at one point things became so bad that I had to drop out of medical school for awhile and it took me some time to get back on track. Suffice it to say, I was not a stellar medical student because I was very much distracted and unhappy at the time. But, I always remembered my experience as a PCA at TCH, and over time I realized that was where I wanted to be because I had such respect for this institution, and for Dr. Feigin. I did a sub-internship month at TCH my fourth year of medical school, and it was at that time that Dr. Feigin told me what a great job I was doing and that he was proud of me. This was the first time that anyone in my medical training said such a nice thing to me. For a number of reasons I was limited to staying in Houston after medical school, and I applied to Baylor as my first choice. It was my dream to come here to this institution and become a pediatrician. When I interviewed with Dr. Feigin he gave me a hug and the handshake. I was so very happy. However, when match day arrived I was informed that I did not match to any program. Needless to say, I was mortified and I did not know what to do. At that time, I had no job, mounting expenses, and no family support. To be honest, I was alone in the world. At the suggestion of a family friend, I called the Pediatric Residency office just to make sure that it was really true. . .because Dr. Feigin did shake my hand. I left a message and expected to speak to one of the administrative assistants to be informed that yes, I would indeed need to scramble for some position somewhere. I clearly remember sobbing while waiting for the return call. To my surprise, Dr. Feigin called me back. He said that there had been a mistake in the match, and that I was supposed to be in the pediatric class, and even though it was full now he would create an additional place for me, and that I was very welcome to the program. While I was an intern and resident my personal problems continued to plague me at times. During these times Dr. Feigin was always there to support me, to give a hug, offer advice, and guide me and instruct me and point me in the right direction. He never, ever said an unkind word to me, although I am sure that at times he was frustrated with me and disagreed with my decisions (as I now disagree with many of them myself!). It was as if he knew that I was just this misguided kid who needed some gentle prodding and direction, and this is what he gave to me. He never judged. He never criticized. He always just offered support and kindness. I have now (after over 8 years here) attained success in my field, having become one of the faculty here at Baylor. I know that I had to work hard to get to this place in my life, but without Dr. Feigin there is no way that I would be where I am today. He didn't see me as a mediocre medical student with a lot of baggage, but rather as a person with tremendous potential. This quality about Dr. Feigin is what I believe sets him apart from any other physician or person that I have ever known. He really had perfect vision. He saw medical knowledge not just as data on a page (although he did have great fun quoting the exact reference with that twinkle in his eye and boyish grin during rounds!), but as a continuing story with no end - there was always more to discover. He saw a future in TCH when it was just a struggling tiny hospital. He saw the need and importance for ongoing pediatric research. And, most importantly, he saw all of us. He saw all of us as we really are. He saw the best in every one of us, no matter if we were a lowly PCA or high up in the adminstration. That is why everyone he ever met responded to him in such a positive manner. He was ultimately selfless at heart, and he knew the goodness in all of our hearts despite all our imperfections. Dr. Feigin, I will miss you, and I will always love you dearly! Jennifer Schuette Connection: former resident Organization: Children's National Medical Center Location: Crofton, MD Story:     What a pleasure it has been to read all of the Feigin tales. The most amazing thing to me is it seems as if you read so many of the same things over and over-because he answered my get well e-mail in under 24 hours, too; and he made me feel like the best resident ever after I stumbled through my first Feigin rounds (but I damn well know the moniker for every avascular necrosis condition ever described); and he sucked me into being a TCH resident when I only went for the interview because my med school mentor knew Dr. Feigin and said that I HAD to (and then he sucked me into a chief year because who could say no to that man??); and he ran down every last ball I ever sent to him on the tennis court. But more than all of that, I hear through all of the stories the same themes: enthusiasm, compassion, motivation, love for life, joy in absolutely everything that he did. And of course the gap toothed, cackling laughter when he knew he gotcha-nothing like it. I can hear it still-and I left TCH 12 years ago. You're finally getting the rest you never got in this life-or more likely, knowing you, you're coming up with a plan to expand heaven. You live on in all of us whom you taught and touched. God bless you and your family-the world is a better place that you were here. Paul Sirbaugh Connection: Colleague Organization: Baylor College of Medicine Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I have so many wonderful memories of Dr Feigin and they span what I consider to be my formidable adult years. As a result of his powerful example and influence, I am a different person and the imprint is permanent. One of my favorite Dr Feigin memories occurred during Houston's response to the Hurricane Katrina evacuees. It was day two and he had already called the clinic a bazillion times making sure that the children and workers at the clinic had everything that they needed. There was a new concern every 5 minutes so his calls were always timely, almost as if he had a crystal ball. I had just had a rather difficult discussion with the County leadership regarding the lack of hygiene in the clinic and of course their resources were limited. The phone rang and on the other end was Dr Feigin asking if there was anything else that we needed - I jokingly asked him if he could send us a couple of people with bleach to scrub down our germ infested clinic. Thirty minutes later (no lie) two ladies with a week's supply of housekeeping equipment (including the carts) showed up at the entrance to our clinic and began scrubbing everything that didn't move - and they stayed for two weeks. I still have no idea how they and their carts made it through security. Everything that happened for children during that response was a direct result of Dr Feigin's influence and huge heart. Cost was never once discussed - he said to assume the account was endless, and it was. He will be missed. Mini Michael Connection: Co-worker Organization: Location: Story:     If I don’t share my story, I believe it will be ungrateful to Dr. Feigin. As I read the stories of others, who have experienced the magnanimous help of Dr. Feigin, I realize that he was always applying his one child at a time rule when dealing the problems of each one of us. When I came on J1 Visa to TCH from Sydney, Australia to do Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship, my intention was to go back and work in Australia. However, being a country with nationalized medicine and with much less population than the U.S., there was no opportunity in Pediatric Nephrology anywhere in Australia when I finished my fellowship. Despite having a job offer at work at TCH, I had to go back due to the 2 year home residency requirement with J1 visa. I worked in General Pediatrics for 2 yrs in Sydney and as soon as I finished the 2 yr home residency requirement, based on Dr Brewer’s recommendation, Dr. Feigin created a faculty position at TCH, even though there was no opening or funding at that time. I am grateful to him every moment of my life and I feel that I did not express this well enough when he was alive. I would also like to express my appreciation to Dr. Judy Feigin for supporting him in all his good deeds throughout his life. As the old saying goes “there is a woman behind every successful man” and you are indeed one. Laura Stehle Connection: Patient Family Member Organization: Location: houston, texas Story:     Dr.Feigin was a wonderful man who I had the pleasure of meeting several years ago when my daughter Lauren first became a patient of the hospital. I am so grateful for Texas Childrens Hospital & Dr, Feign he will be greatly missed. Dr.Feign gave me a reason to never give up on my daughter despite all her health problems. Texas Childrens saved my daughters life & thanks to the great dr my daughter got the star treatment like all the children do at the hospital i love that place & the dr's are great..God may taken a wonderful dr from all of us but we all take peace in knowing we'll see you again soon you'll be greatly missed. Ann Connection: Resident Organization: Location: Story:     From the first time I met Dr. Feigin when I went to Baylor on a whim during my residency interviews, I knew there was no other place for pediatric residency for me. I left home in Cincinnati for Houston- one of the best decisions of my life. I had the pleasure of presenting 10 Feigin Rounds during my pediatric training and continued on for a post-doctoral fellowship then faculty position. His teaching approach, compassion for patients/families and incredible differential diagnoses in that microcephalic head will never be forgotten. I as well as others I have spoken with during the last week who knew Ralph have designed our teaching styles after him. Larry Finder Connection: Friend Organization: Haynes and Boone, LLP Location: Housotn, TX Story:     I came to know Ralph when I was the Chairman of the Harris County Hospital District. The District was gong through a financial crisis (again), and one day my phone rang and it was Ralph. He proposed a lunch meeting to discuss how Medical Center institutions might assist. I met him in his office at BCM and recall that while I ate my turkey sandwich, he picked at his lunch, eating almost nothing. He proposed a meeting of TMC CEOs and some business leaders in the community to come up with plans to take some of the financial burden off the shoulders of the District. That meeting occurred, with the presence of TMC CEOs as well as Bill White (then CEO of Wedge Group) and Ned Holmes. Ralph insisted that each TCM institution provide some sort of financial assistance to the Hospital District, and followed up on all commitments. In subsequent meetings of the working group, Ralph, Ned and Bill made sure that all commitments were kept. I could provide other tales of my much too short association with Ralph (like how he baited me into racing him at Memorial Park and exhausting me, even though I was 14 years his junior), but I've already taken up way too much space. Suffice it to say that Ralph was a hero, and often an unsung hero. He made extraordinary contributions to the betterment of us all, and to say that he will be missed would be a gross understatement. Rana Kronfol Connection: Resident Organization: former resident Location: El Paso, TX Story:     I am deeply saddened by Dr Feigin's loss and my thoughts and prayers are with Dr Feigin, their children and grandchildren. When Dr Feigin offered me a residency position at Baylor, he truly changed the path my career and life were on. He is an incredible physician, outstanding mentor and father figure for the whole baylor family, especially to his residents. His loss resonates around the world. I will always remember feigin rounds! David Coats Connection: Colleague Organization: TCH/Baylor Location: Houston, TX Story:     I received a call from Dr. Feigin on my cell phone well before sunrise one morning a few years ago. He wanted to know the name of the ophthalmology resident on call. He said that she had parked in the emergency room parking lot, but was walking in a direction opposite of the emergency room. He caught up with the resident and asked were she was going. Lying, she said that she was going to see a child in the hospital. He knew she was lying. He told her he would like to go with her to learn something about ophthalmology, at which point she broke down, cried and admitted that she was really going to Methodist to see a patient and knew she should not have parked in the ER parking lot. He said that she appeared very distressed by the ordeal. Dr. Feigin not only wanted to know her name, but wanted to know were she would be working that day. He wanted to send the resident flowers and an apology, because he felt bad for having distressed her. He said it was not his intention to make her feel bad and he wanted to make sure she did not worry about the incident. The kind manner in which he treated this ophthalmology resident exemplifies the manner he treated everyone. I miss him. Sudarshan Rao Jadcherla Connection: Resident Former Senior Resident and Neonatology Fellow Organization: Nationwide Childrens Hospital and the Ohio State University Location: Columbus, Ohio Story:     I am grateful to Dr. Ralph Feigin for giving me the opportunity to do senior residency under his direction in 1992. From him, I learnt to: be self-motivated, pursue curiosity, think ahead of the current diagnostic dilemmas that a child faces, bring innovative individualized focused care plan, seize a teaching opportunity and to contribute to the next level of excellence. I am fortunate to have worked in Dr. Feigin's program. I offer my prayers for the departed great soul. Lisa Dunkle Connection: Friend Organization: Schering-Plough Corporation Location: Madison, Connecticut Story:     When I met Ralph as a pediatric resident at St. Louis Children's, I was awed by his incredible intelligence and unbelievable command of both the art and science of medicine. As an Infectious Disease fellow with him, I came to appreciate even more his ability to think critically and sort through complicated situations. His personal support of all of us reflected his warmth and caring of amazing proportions. Ralph nudged me "out of the nest" to take my first job in academics and remained supportive throughout those years of my career. When I considered the somewhat non-traditional move to join the pharmaceutical industry, it was Ralph who encouraged me to do clinical research in that setting of the quality that he had taught us. As he has said about his teaching, this role has been a way for me to bring care to vastly more HIV/AIDS patients throughout the world than I could have accomplished caring for individual patients. Over all these years, Ralph has been a teacher, friend, mentor and even pediatrician to my first child before the move to Texas. For the last two years, he was advisor to my younger child, now a third year resident at TCH. He has truly been part of our family. Thank you Judy, and all the Feigins for sharing this remarkable man with all of us so generously. With love, Lisa Dunkle Scheffler, M.D. Jean Muse RN Connection: Colleague ER nurse Organization: TCH Location: Houston, Texas Story:     My heart is broken! The world has truly lost one of its angels on earth. I happened to be in Memphis, Tenn when word got to me that Dr. Feigin lost his battle-I actually heard it from a physician who worked @ St. Louis Children's Hospital. The flash of his smile, the kind words spoken, the knowledge that this great man possessed will be sorely missed. I will always remember and take comfort in knowing that he will always be with us, taking care of his "family" @ TCH. I will truly miss his morning strolls through the EC, speaking to everyone he came in contact with, and stopping long enough to discuss any and all interesting cases in the EC. May God bless Dr. Feigin and his family. I will miss him dearly. Duyen Nguyen Connection: Resident Organization: Location: Houston Story:     Words could not describe Dr. Feigin... Yes, he is larger than life in so many ways. His sincere love, constant caring and support for his residents are unspeakable. I cried after the interview session with Dr. Feigin for my residency, because I recognized that Dr. Feigin believed in me, more than I could believe in myself. Dr. Feigin was always there for me when I needed his advice for my fellowship, for my future career... I cried when the news of his death arrived, because I knew we had lost the greatest leader, the best clinician, the extraordinary visionary, and the kindest mentor. Dr. Feigin, I am who I am today because of you, and I promise myself to become the best physician that I could be in your honors! Elizabeth Connection: Co-worker Organization: Location: Story:     As a former employee of TCH, I had the pleasure of representing TCH/Baylor at AAP conferences. There was not a day that would go by without someone asking if Dr. Feigin would be at our booth. When he was, former residents would wait to speak with him and he would speak to each of them, remembering everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will be greatly missed. Jennifer Jetton Connection: Fellow, former TCH resident Organization: TCH Location: Houston, Texas Story:     During my intern year my daughter was diagnosed with a chronic medical condition. While her diagnosis seems minor when compared to the illnesses so many other children at TCH have faced, it was a blow to my husband and me. While talking with one of the chief residents about it, I asked if she thought I should let Dr. Feigin know. It just seemed like a good idea to have him in our corner, but I didn't want to add to all the many things he had to think about. The answer was, "Absolutely - I'm sure he'll want to know." I sent him an email that night and had an answer immediately. Of course he offered to review any and all medical records we wished to send him. But more importantly, he offered words of encouragement and hope while expressing true understanding of what it means to have a loved one receive a life-long diagnosis. He shared personal experiences from his own family and offered his support. He signed the email "Ralph Feigin" instead of Dr. Feigin. I still have that email saved in my in-box and read it again the night he died. Those who know me wouldn't be surprised to know I had tears freely flowing by the time I got to the end. Other people have written about how everyone has unique stories about Dr. Feigin yet we all have been touched by him both professionally and personally. I, too, share that sentiment and feel so lucky to have been a part of Baylor and TCH under his leadership. My deepest sympathies go to his family. I will say again as others already have - thank you for sharing him with us. Seema Jilani Connection: Student Resident Organization: Baylor Location: Houston, Tx Story:     When I found out Dr. Feigin was ill last year, I wrote a note of support to him, telling him how much he meant to me, how he had changed my life and allowed me to succeed, how I would be there to support him through his illness, and what an inspiration he was to us all. Within twenty four hours, Dr. Feigin called me. I heard Dr. Feigin's warm voice on the other end. He was calling to thank me for my note... He told me he was calling from his chemotherapy infusion suite, as he was getting treated. Needless to say, we did not have dry eyes between the two of us... When I was a medical student, I presented a case at Feigin Rounds. The next day, as I was rounding on the wards, I looked up and there was Dr. Feigin. Not believing my eyes, I asked if he needed something. He gave me a huge hug and said he had simply come upstairs to tell me that he was proud of me. I was on cloud nine for the rest of the month. I looked forward to every week at Feigin Rounds and left each week in awe of Dr. Feigin's brilliance. Sitting at dinner with the Feigins was a treat during our resident Birthday Dinners. His zest for life was infectious, as was his smile. His kindess is unsurpassed. Dr. Feigin believed in me when I didn't even believe in myself. Always the advocate for his residents, he gave me the tools to have my dreams become a reality. He was a visionary, a role model, a surrogate father to me, an incredible clinician, and simply a phenomenal human being that left the world much too early and will be dearly missed. He treated everyone he came into contact with, regardless of status, with respect and warmth; he had an authenticity about him that resonated with us all, which is incredibly rare in this world. We have lost a great man. May he rest in peace. Michelle Connection: Co-worker Organization: TCH Location: Houston, TX Story:     He was such a nice man; he always spoke with a smile. I remember everytime that he came to Cardiology he was so pleasant. I'm very fortunate to have worked in the same institution with such a brilliant young man. I don't think he realized how many lives he touched. God Bless his wife and family. Jamil Joyner Connection: Former resident Organization: Location: Houston Story:     My favorite Dr. Feigin memories involve basketball. I will never forget when we played together at a resident BBQ. First of all, he made almost every 3 point shot he tried. Then, I was impressed by his ability to physically box me out. He played some really tough defense! Then, a few years later I had the honor of going to the last Feigin birthday dinner at his house. I asked him how he was able to defend opponents and he spent the next ten minutes showing me in his dining room. He had such an amazing and spontaneous spirit on and off of the court. As physicians, we can only hope to emulate a few of his "winning" qualities. Daphne Nizza Shaw Connection: Colleague Student Resident Organization: Location: Fort Worth, Texas Story:     Like so many others, I feel profoundly touched by Dr. Feigin's belief in me, as several times his confidence in me exceeded my own. I can remember that-after he told me he wanted to have me as part of his residency class-I asked him if he was sure about that. Had he seen my shelf scores? He said that he had seen my scores and remained very sure of his decision. His loss has affected me deeply, not just at the level of a mentor and professional inspiration but also at the level of a friend. Martha Curry Connection: Co-worker Organization: TCH Location: Houston, TX Story:     Twenty four years ago I lost a courageous young patient to a lifelong illness and I had a hard time coping with the unfairness of his death. Dr. Feigin didn't have answers about fairness, but he did have solutions for grief, get busy, work hard, find your cause. It worked then, and I'm betting it will work now. More later, gotta go to clinic. Steven Abrams Connection: Colleague Organization: Location: Story:     Dr. Feigin's support of international work to improve the health care of children in developing countries was immense. After the tsunami in December 2004, he quickly (within hours of being asked!) arranged for us to have funding for a relief trip to Sri Lanka. He was intensely interested in each of our international trips and what was learned there and how TCH could help in training and education throughout the world. My colleagues in Peru at the large public maternity hospital (La Maternidad) in Lima sent me the following note from the head of the hospital, Dr. Rosmary Hinojosa. I believe it summarizes well how much Dr. Feigin's efforts meant on a world-wide basis. “The loss of Dr. Feigin is a great loss, not only for Texas Children’s Hospital, but for all of the world’s pediatric community. We express our condolences to the family members and his colleagues. Our institution sends it’s condolences. It is with his guidance and help that we have benefited as an institution and as a country.” Jim Keating Connection: Friend Organization: Washington University/St Louis Children's Hospital Location: St Louis, Missouri Story:     A gentle giant Although I trod on Ralph's heels through Boston City Hospital and the Massachusetts General Hospital, we didn't meet until 1968 at St Louis Children's when I joined the many who recognized in RDF a friend and colleague. He was leaving the Army and I the Navy, both happily recruited by Phil Dodge as he rebuilt the program at WUMS/SLCH. I was and am proud to have shared with Ralph and Phil the regeneration of the spirit of love of children animating the hospital of Marriott, Hartmann, Jeans, Cook, and Martha May Eliot. Ralph was a wonderful physician and kind friend, a man who filled the world around him with good works, fun and joy. To be the star quarterback, the head cheerleader, and the college president at the same time and keep it up for three decades. leaves a record of accomplishment which will not be matched in the record books of our profession. My heartfelt thanks to Judy, Susie, Mike and Debbie for sharing him with us. Jamie Varughese Connection: Former resident Organization: Location: Story:     Words are so inadequate to express the impact that Dr. Feigin had on those whose lives he personally touched. He was an extraordinary human being - one of the most amazing people I have ever met. I am a better person to have known him. Nicole Mavrides Connection: former resident Organization: Location: New York, NY Story:     I will never forget the generosity and kindness of Dr Feigin. He helped all of the peds residents from Tulane after Huricane Katrina by opening the arms of the Pediatric Residency at Baylor and letting so many of us finish our year in Houston. There was no question about whether it would be a problem or how all of the other residents would deal with the addition of 5-10 more residents - he just wanted us all to complete our training. I will never forget presenting at my first "Feigin Rounds" and everyone asking if I was nervous - I didn't know that I had to be! Dr. Feigin always made us feel welcome and as many others have said before, he really knew all of us by name. I feel honored to have spent a year learning from him and to have known such an amazing person. He will be missed by so many. Marietta de Guzman Connection: Colleague Organization: TCH Location: Story:     I am lost for words on how to describe a truly great, legendary man. More so on how to justly describe him as a caring, kind man. Five months ago, I was with a health scare myself. Few hours after I was told of the diagnosis, Dr. Feigin was there to offer comfort and help me make plans for my treatment. I was truly humbled by his strength, determination and the kindest of hearts. I am and will always be grateful. "... we passed this way but once.." and Dr. Feigin did it the way that only the very best could. And each day, I will be reminded and inspired of his teachings and deeds. And to Dr. Judy and their children and grandchildren, my prayers and love. Belinda Brouillette Connection: Volunteer Organization: Auxiliary Location: Houston, TX Story:     I had only been volunteering a couple of months and was walking over to the annual meeting for the auxiliary and must have looked lost, because this doctor asked me if I needed some help and I told him where I was going and he said he was going there too and we could walk together. He asked me how long I had been volunteering and where I volunttered and we just had the nicest visit. We walked into the room together and I thanked him for his help and he went on and I sat down at my table and they asked me if I knew who he was and I said no. Then the meeting started and he was introduced. The group I was sitting with just smiled. That was how I met Dr. Feigin. No matter who you were and what you did at TCH, you mattered. He and his beautiful wife always made time for the volunteers and always let us know how appreciative he was for all the volunteers did for the hospital. I want to thank his family for sharing this wonderful man with all of us. God Bless you all. Shannon Connection: Organization: Location: Story:     The first time I met Dr. Feigin I had been working here for about three days and it was at a meeting in June, 2007. He held out his hand to shake mine and said 'hello, I'm Ralph Feigin' and I said 'well, I KNOW YOU!' very proud of myself that I recognized his name from somewhere in my short time on the job. I will never forget the very kind, near-laughing but humble smile he gave me. I saw him every month after that at the same meeting, and I also saw him walking the halls periodically. Each and every time, he exuded the same warmth in his full of life smile. Katherine King Connection: Resident Organization: TCH Location: Houston Story:     Dr. Feigin was not only a brilliant physician and a visionary leader but also an approachable human being and enthusiastic learner. Every day he covered a huge expanse of territory, checking on the ER, seeing patients in the hospital, leading morning rounds, and meeting with executives, usually before the morning was half over. At the end of my residency we thought it would be fun to give him a pedometer so he could record just how many steps he took in a day. The next week, he showed up at Feigin rounds 10 minutes early as usual. As we waited for the residents and students to show up, he jogged around the conference room in his white coat, saying "I want to see how accurate this thing is." He inspired love in all those around him and will be greatly missed. Kimberly Jordan Connection: Co-worker Organization: Location: Story:     I've been fortunate to see the growth, expansion and excitement at TCH and witness firsthand the amazing work Dr. Feigin has contributed to TCH. I absolutely ADORE Dr. Judy Feigin and have had the privilege to work with her on numerous occasions. My thoughts and prayers are with Judy and the Feigin family during this difficult time. Stella Connection: one who respects Dr. Feigin Organization: TCH Location: Story:     My first meeting of Dr. Feigin was in the Medical Staff Office @ TCH. As everyone knows, Dr. Feigin would come in very early every day, well I also had to be in early one morning. As I was going about my morning duties the front door was opened, I said 'hello' & he responded with a hello. I then went to the front and asked if I could help him. He said no he was just passing through. I asked him who he was because physicians did not have keys to the front door of our office & I didn't know who he was. When he said he was 'Dr. Feigin'...I said well I guess it's ok for you to come & go anytime. He simply smiled & said thank you. Amber AKA Beyonce Connection: Former Resident Organization: Location: Story:     I loved Dr. Feigin because he was so down to earth! I grew up in Houston and always wanted to work in the TMC. However, I went to med school in Dallas, so I didn't know that I should have been intimidated by Dr. Feigin ;-) I did an away rotation at Baylor/TCH in 2004 and thought I would call to schedule a meeting with Dr. Feigin. His assitant put me on hold then came back and said, "Can you come now?" I had to scramble to get myself together because I was expecting his schedule to be full at least a few weeks out...him being P-I-C and all. Needless to say, he greeted me with a smile and blessed me with an opportunity to change many lives. I looked to him as a father figure and desire to make "Daddy Feigin" proud. We love you Dr. Feigin!!! Love, Sedrick and "Beyonce" Holly (Lieder) Parker Connection: Colleague Organization: Duke University Medical Center & School of Nursing Location: Durham, North Carolina Story:     Dr. Feigin was a man of greatness, but he was also a man who led by example and humility. He always made sure to know "his people" as it so clearly states on the website. What I remember most about Dr.Feigin: He knew my name the first time I met him and I had worked as a PNP in the PICU for only a short time; Running with him at Memorial Park one Sunday morning (it was difficult to believe I was 40 years younger after our 6 miles); His personal phone call to say good-bye and thank you when I left Texas Children's to go to Duke in 2004; That he even took time to return a letter to me this past Spring. Ralph left an impression on me to always strive to make life better for children and to never waste a minute of any day we are given. May his family take comfort that his life impacted many and is impacting children across the globe through the many he touched. Marianna Sockrider Connection: Colleague Organization: Baylor Dept of Pediatrics - Pulmonary Location: Story:     I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Judy and all of Ralph's family. I feel privileged to have worked here at Baylor and Texas Children's for this great man. I first came to TCH as a resident on elective in Nutrition and later met Dr. Feigin as a resident applicant. While I stayed home in Kansas City for residency I was glad to come back as a pediatric pulmonary fellow now 21 years ago. I remember Ralph coming to make rounds with his resident and medical student team last year when my only daughter Laura was hospitalized with an MRSA infection on her face. She was impressed that he came to check on her. I will never forget how he recognized my concern despite my efforts to be a professional and how he made a point to tell me that I was a good mother. I know he valued his role as a parent and I was moved by the words each of his children spoke at his funeral. God truly blessed us with his life and good works. Ramya Ramraj Connection: Former Resident. Organization: Location: Houston, TX Story:     Dr. Feigin had been an amazing inspiration to me and many more other residents. He truly amazed me in every way - whether it was his dazzling display of knowledge of every medical topic, or his ability to answer around 200 emails in a day, or his uncanny knack of remembering every name or face, or his firm belief that it is only the people that make the difference, or his unrelenting positivity and enthusiasm, or his uncompromising punctuality - and yet in spite of his larger than life image, he was one of the most real persons that I have ever known. Thank you, you will forever inspire us, Dr. Feigin. Lisa Anderson-Williams Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Story:     My connection to Dr. Feigin is over 15 years ago. I was the Education Coordinator at Texas Children's Hospital and I had the task to educate Dr. Feigin on the new computer system. I initially thought what could I teach a man that knew everything. Dr. Feigin welcomed me into his office and I spent the next 2 hours with him. After that encounter whenever I would see him in the hallways or in the communuty he would say Hi Lisa and how are those computers? It takes a special person to remember and recognize everyone you encounter. Dr. Feigin will indeed be missed but never forgotten. His legacy is Texas Children's Hospital. Achille Arcidiacono Connection: Patient Family Member Organization: Location: Story:     I meet Feigin when he first came to TCH in the 70’s. At that time, as the Honorary Consul of Italy I would go often to TCH to visit the families of young Italian patients. He was attentive and caring. Ten years ago, when little, my grand son Christopher returned from the Denver Hospital and was recovered in TCH, still in coma with very little motion, our family took turns to stay with Christopher, my turn to stay with him was from 4AM to 8AM. Dr. Feigin was the first person to come in the room in the morning, must have been even earlier than 6AM and we usually would talk a while. I have memories of these early morning visits that will remain with me for ever, being with him felt like being with a saintly person, he gave you the impression that his caring for the little creature on the bed was the caring of an angel. If there is a heaven I am certain he is there. Peace be with his soul. Tim Connection: Co-worker Former employee of Texas Childrens Hospital Organization: Former employee of TCH Location: Houston Story:     I am a former employee of Texas Childrens Hospital Plant Engineering department. Like Dr. Feigin, I also love basketball. I remember being called to Dr. Feigin's office to complete a call on several occasions. Dr. Feigin made me feel as if we were old buddies. We would sit and talk about basketball and even shoot around on the basketball goal in his office. I was amazed at his skills. Anytime he would see me in the hallways at the hospital, he would always make sure he called my name and smile. To this day, I continue to talk to my wife about him and our conversations. He was a great person. May God carry his friends and family through this difficult time. Tom Burke Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Houston, TX Story:     Dr. Feigin was such an incredible influence in pediatric medicine, and he impacted so many people, big and small. I never had the chance of a formal introduction, but I would pass him in the halls every now and then. Whether it was a simple nod, a smile or even a hello, he always acknowledged me if we made eye contact. He has left such an amazing footprint in this world and will truly be missed. God bless you. Regina Lantin Connection: Colleague Faculty Organization: BCM/TCH Location: Houston, TX Story:     What strikes me most about Dr. Feigin is his warm and caring personality , and his unique ability to make every person feel important. I first met Dr. Feigin during my Faculty interview 2 years ago. I arrived a few minutes early, just as he was walking into his office himself. I was amazed at his keen memory, as he effortlessly rattled off facts about me from my CV! Being such a busy man, and with the many people he encounters everyday, I was always pleasantly surprised when he would always greet me by name whenever we would bump into each other. During his 30th anniversary as Physician in Chief of TCH, I walked up to congratulate him and was about to introduce myself. He told me that he was offended that I would even think that he would not know me! "How could DR. Lantin think I do not know her?", he asked incredulously to the people around him. A photographer snapped our picture at that moment and I will always treasure that image of him. I am so furtunate to have had the opportunity to work with and to have known this very important man, even if only briefly. He will be missed. May he rest in peace. Gabriella Cardone Connection: Colleague Organization: TCH/BCM Location: Houston, TX Story:     What to say about someone who had the time on his busy schedule to listen everytime I needed someone, to help with personal and professional needs and care as if it was one of his own. He treated my family as his own and recently sent my a letter that gave me so much strenght and portreyed the man of great caracter, respect and compassion he was. It is impossible to tell his story, because it is so big and so filled with grace. What he has done for our life is tremendous. I will keep him in my heart and will pass his teachings to my kids. My committment is to try to remember his example and share with others in my daily life. Thank you for everything you are Dr. Feigin. You will be alive in all of us. We will work at it! Charlene Ault-Hallmark Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Children's Hospital/ Baylor College of Medicine Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Dr. Feigin always found time to stop by the Emergency Center every morning to say "good morning". He would discuss with the EC staff the interesting cases that we had for the day. We would discuss census and admissions. Dr. Feigin would feel the pulse of the hospital through the eyes of the EC daily. He called us each by name! Then as routine as seeing him on a daily basis, he would slip off his lab coat, head to the scale and weigh! Dr. Feigin always had a smile for our patients and staff. He was a pleasure to work with. He will be known for his expertise in medicine but more for the friendliness he dipslayed on a daily basis. He will be missed by all. Armando Correa Connection: Colleague Organization: BCM/TCH Location: Friendswood, TX Story:     After 11 years of being a part of the BCM/TCH Pediatric family, I decided to venture into a program up North (against Dr. Feigin's advice, I confess). During those 3 years, Dr. Feigin remained supportive and in frequent communication. Due to family reasons, I needed to come back to Texas and was heading to a job in the valley when I stopped by Dr. Feigin's office to say Hi. Upon reviewing my offer, he decided that was not the right job for me, got Dr. Drutz on the phone and by the end of the day I had a contract in my hand and his office had already called the moving company! Eight days later I was proudly wearing the BCM/TCH badge again. "What is the problem and how can I solve it?" was his approach to the many issues that he confronted every day. And he did this with the biggest heart, understanding and commitment that I have ever witnessed. Dr. Feigin: You will be dearly missed but will always be in our hearts! Sara Rizvi Connection: Colleague Organization: Texas Childrens/Baylor Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Before I even started medical school I worked in the research labs at Baylor College of Medicine and would often catch Dr. Feigin walking from Baylor to Texas Children's hospital. I didn't know much about him then but he was always gracious with a smile and an exceptionally fast walker....I was a youngster and I had a hard time keeping up with his pace! Little did I know that so many years later I would return to Houston and work for the pediatrics department under his leadership. It was then that I truly began to understand what an exceptional human being he truly was...his intellect and skill in pediatric medicine is amazing as evidenced by stories from his Feigin rounds but I maintain that it is even still completely surpassed by his power of compassion and caring...and that is what made him such a success. Every holiday party Ralph and Judy Feigin would personally welcome each guest, they opened their homes and their hearts to students, faculty, and others and it is this idea of being a family that built loyalty and made Baylor different. He understood that a personal touch will always take you farther...that was his greatest sacrifice...and that is his greatest lesson to all of us. My condolences to the Feigin family....he will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Heather Reid Connection: Co-worker Organization: Location: Story:     Dr. Feigin has touched many hearts with his winning personality and genuine smiles. He has left indelible marks for all of us to remember and adopt. Truly, he will be missed but his memories will always be with us. David Hilmers Connection: Colleague Organization: TCH Location: Houston, TX Story:     Among Dr. Feigin’s many amazing characteristics, I think the one that most impressed me was his way of giving you his undivided attention and making you feel that your question or problem, no matter how trivial, was the most important thing to him at the time. One story reminds me of this (and also how he deserved the nickname “Rocket Ralph.”) Last year several of us from TCH went to Peru to help with relief efforts after a large earthquake struck the southern coast. Before returning, I emailed Dr. Feigin a report of our activities, thinking that he would read it later at his leisure. Much to my wonder, in the time that it took me to send the message and reopen my inbox, I had an email back from him telling me that he appreciated my report and the work we had done. As always, no matter where we were whether in South America or at TCH, it was like Dr. Feigin was standing right there with us, urging us on to do our best. A great light that brightened the world for many years has been extinguished, but his glow will live on in the hearts of the many thousands whom he touched during his life. The principles of excellence, love, and concern for others that he implanted in each of us will live on for generations as we pass along his example to those whom we teach. The world is an emptier place without Dr. Feigin, but his memory will be with us forever. Mrs. Feigin and family, we share in your loss. Robert Warren Connection: Colleague Organization: Texas Childrens Hospital Location: Bellaire, TX Story:     Dr. Feigin will be with me always, inside the smile of every child and every family I care for. Bob Warren, MD Sherry Sellers Vinson Connection: Acting Chief of BCM/TCH Developmental Pediatrics Section Organization: Location: Houston, TX Story:     The most outstanding trait of Dr. Ralph Feigin and his wife, Dr. Judith Feigin, is the way they have made everyone connected with the BCM/TCH Pediatric Department feel like one of their family members. This has been done in a sincere, non-fake, manner toward everyone with no one feeling less favored than anyone else. Even my non-physician husband whose only connection with Dr. Ralph was through me, has mentioned at times that he was somewhere and Dr. Ralph had walked up to him and self-initiated a greeting even when my husband had not seen Dr. Ralph first. I will always be grateful for The Feigin's creation of such a family atmosphere. Knowing that when he asked me to be acting chief of the section of Developmental Pediatrics at BCM/TCH I voiced reservations about my ability to mentor/recruit faculty and attract financial support for our Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Residency Program, Dr. Ralph went out of his way to help me. All of my faculty report immediate congratulatory e-mails from Dr. Ralph when they gain grants/publications; Dr. Ralph's cell phone calls to me while on the road to answer one of my questions became common; e-mails to tell me where to look for money to support our residency occurred frequently. Dr. Ralph went out of his way to call mates of people I was trying to recruit to advise them who they needed to contact for jobs in Houston, even when their job field was not medicine. Dr. Ralph always had the time to listen to my concerns and give good advice. Once he even told me he would get to the bottom of my concern even if he had to go in disguise to find out the answer for me and then he flashed that famous smile of his. Somehow the thought of Dr. Ralph dressing up incognito with a mustache hooked to a plastic nose/glasses with hat/trenchcoat still makes me laugh and feel comforted. Maria Perez Connection: Co-worker Organization: BCM Pediatric Rheumatology Location: Houston, Texas Story:     When I was a 4th year medical student, I came to Baylor to do an elective in Pediatric Infectious disease. I was exposed to my first Feigin rounds, the likes of which I had never seen. I was inspired to become an academic pediatrician; preferably at TCH. Academic pediatrics was a path I had never previously considered. I knew that I had to be in the environment that Dr. Feigin created for my training. When he called me to offer me my internship, I wanted to make sure I was hearing his words correctly and made him repeat them two more times to make sure I was not not dreaming. I don't know if he thought I was hearing impaired, but he was gracious and kept repeating the phrase, "I want you to come to Baylor". Of course I replied yes. His gift to me that December 1986 was truly the most precious one I could ever wish for. During my years on the BCM Medical school admissions committee I recruited with enthusiasm. I am sure some applicants thought "I was laying it on thick", but if they came to Baylor and finished their rotation in Pediatrics, that student knew then, that all I had said was true and then some. Dr. Feigin has known me all my professional life and has continued to give me the gift of a wonderful department that never fails to make me so proud of the work we do for children here everyday. I have never come to work here for even one day, without looking forward to what the day would bring me. Not many people can say they still love their job as much as the day they started. This is now for me 22 years later. However my boss, Dr. Feigin, never did either and never accepted anything less. For this I am eternally grateful and will continue to come to work here with a child's enthusiasm as my small but living memorial to my hero and mentor. Jamille Hamad Connection: former resident and fan Organization: TCPA Location: Houston Story:     I still remember the first 'Feigin Rounds' I attended as a medical student. I was so amazed at his knowledge. When I began my Pediatrics residency, I was really excited about having him as a teacher. However, he became much more than that. He was always there for us on a professional and personal level. He was there for me and for my family and for that I will always be grateful. Human kind has suffered a great loss. Kelly Wallin Connection: Co-worker Organization: Location: Story:     What a great personal loss, but what a great legacy lives on because of him. I first met Dr. Feigin when I started my pediatric ICU nursing orientation at TCH in 1981 at a time that - unbeknownst to me - I had entered one of the most critical ICU nursing shortages ever experienced at TCH. Dr. Feigin made it his business to meet and welcome me to the team, then appeared every day thereafter in the ICU, rounding, collaborating with our nursing and MD leaders in open forums, and doing everything he could to advocate for a work environment that would attract the most competent and committed nurses around. Needless to say, we eventually assembled a top-notch nursing team. I have moved on to enjoy a rewarding 27-year career at TCH, and will always respect the pivotal role that Dr. Feigin played in making TCH a center of excellence for children's healthcare. I offer my deepest condolences and prayers to the Feigin family. Kristin Koush Connection: Former Resident/Chief Resident Organization: TCPA Location: Story:     With the passing of Dr. Feigin, this world has lost a great man. His enthusiasm for life, knowledge and nurturing those around him is what I will remember most about this incredible mentor of mine. Over the past few days, I have had a chance to think about my favorite "Dr. Feigin stories". I have recalled many famous "Feigin Rounds", when after he flawlessly diagramed the tyrosine metabolic pathway, or recited the 5 layers of the cornea, or calculated the body surface area of the patient in his head, he would smile a boyish grin as the room would clearly be in awe. About the BSA calculation, he would say, "it's just the cubed root of the square of the weight." I was amazed every time. I have also thought about the incredible influence this man has had. To his trainees, students and faculty he instilled a commitment to serving others, inspired us to think big and have vision, and reminded us that in everything we do, it's always "about people". Thank you, Dr. Feigin. I will be forever grateful to you. You will be missed. Sujit Iyer Connection: Former Resident Organization: Location: Philadelphia Story:     The best thing about all of my Feigin stories is that I feel that they are unique to me, and yet almost every resident has the same ones. My true appreciation of Dr. Feigin was felt just this past year after I left TCH. Two years into fellowship, and away from TCH and I was having a crisis on what to do next with my life. Thinking Dr. Feigin may know some people I had met in Pennsylvania, I emailed him to get his thoughts. Within two hours there was a letter of recommendation from Dr. Feigin in someone else's inbox, and a reply from Dr. Feigin that said he was proud of me and would always be following my career. It's one thing when your parents say they are proud, and it's a whole other thing when someone like Dr. Feigin made you feel proud of who you were. In spite of all of his awards and names on buildings, he always made you feel like you were his peer, even though you never thought you were. In some way, we all feel he's still watching our careers, and we still should do our best to make him proud. Elizabeth DeLuca Connection: Patient Family Member Friend Organization: Location: Story:     I called Dr. Feigin last summer (2007) and asked if he could help me organize a conference on my daughter's rare metabolic disease. He said that he thought he could and in a few short weeks he arranged a conference center, lunch and invitations to the doctors. The conference was in the Feigin Building hosted by Dr. Feigin and attended by 80 doctors. All this for a little girl with an extremely rare disease affecting only 100 children worldwide. He did this, not because he had time on his hands, not because it would bring in money for the hospital, not because it brought fame to the hospital. He did it because he genuinely cared about every single child that ever came through the doors of his hospital. Dr. Feigin has left us with a legacy that we must complete for him. Vision 2010 was his last gift to us. God love you Dr. Feigin for all you did for our family. The DeLuca's Becca Rawalt Connection: Former Resident Organization: Location: Houston Story:     I have two favorite stories about Dr Feigin, both make me look a bit foolish. The first was during my interview for residency. I messed up where I was born on my application. Yes, where I was born. I put the city of my birth with the state I was currently living in. His first question was to ask the location of this fictional town as he only knew towns by that name in 5 states but not in the one I had listed. How stupid I felt, yet he put me at ease, laughed with me at my mistake and still blessed me with the Feigin handshake. The second story is on the first day of internship when I, like many other, made the mistake of reindroducing myself to Dr Feigin. He just smiled and said "I know who you are Rebecca" and then proceeded to list everything he knew about me. He cared so much for each and every one of us and I feel so blessed to be one of Ralph's kids. Chris Ward,RRT Connection: Co-worker Organization: TCH Location: Story:     We have indeed lost an exceptional man. I am a night shift respiratory therapist in the Emergency Center and have great memories of Dr. Feigin. Every morning around six or so he came in and weighed himself after his famous five mile run. Amazing how he would always stay within a pound or two of his target weight! He always was pleasant to the staff and asked us "well...how was it?" referring to how the night went. No, I never knew the man in a personal way but he still left a lasting impression. Not only for his brilliant mind but for his compassion, professionalism,and presence. The man commanded respect when he entered a room. You will be missed Dr. Feigin and may God bless, keep, and comfort your family in this time of mourning. Regina Okhuysen-Cawley Connection: Colleague Organization: Location: Houston Story:     Dr. Feigin's impact on pediatric medicine worldwide became evident to me during our son's US visa medical exam in Moscow many years ago. The pediatrician completing the physical commented on the profound effect that Dr. Feigin had on medical practice in his country. I had the privilege of joining Dr. Feigin's staff just a few months later, and was amazed not only by his legendary clinical acumen and unique teaching style, but by his personal warmth and kindness. My husband and I had the honor of attending one of the holiday celebrations that he and his lovely wife hosted each year - we accidentally arrived 30 minutes early, but he and his wife sat us down and made us feel completely at home. Dr. Feigin was exemplary in all ways imaginable-despite his busy schedule, he always found time to respond to an e-mail or give advice. His wonderful smile lit up the room. His medical legacy is a gift to the children of the world. The brilliant rainbow that followed yesterday's rainstorm framed the magnificent institution he created just perfectly - and it served as an affirmation that Ralph now dwells in the House of the Lord - for he was His good and faithful servant. David and Karen Goff Connection: Former Resident Organization: Former Residents at TCH Location: Denton, Texas Story:     Dr. Feigin has been iconic even to our three children who have never met him. He is still talked about at our dinner table routinely and we finished our training over 11 years ago. He is responsible for not only guiding both of our careers but also for bringing us together. He made both of us feel as if we were the most important people he knew. No matter what it was, he was always there to listen and give us advice. It didn't matter who was waiting on the other line; he would always stop to listen. We will continue to try to instill his drive, compassion, and dediciation in our children and to our patients each day. It has been an honor for our family to have our lives touched by such a great man!! We thank his family for sharing him with us!! Sherri Sandifer Connection: Former Resident, current TCPA Physician Organization: TCPA Location: Houston, TX Story:     I first met Dr. Feigin 10 years ago during my residency interview. After receiving not only the fabled Feigin handshake but also a warm hug, I knew moving back home to Houston and being part of TCH was the right thing to do. Dr. Feigin was always supportive of not only my professional career but also my musical interests, so I happily accepted his request that I perform during TCPA's 10th anniversary gala in 2005. The song that I wrote for that night, "One Child at a Time", was inspired by him and is dedicated to him. I can't articulate adequately the impact Dr. Feigin has made on my life. I will miss him dearly. Stuart Goldstein Connection: Colleague Organization: BCM/TCH Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I first heard of Dr. Feigin when I was a med student applying for pediatric residency from my good family friend and pediatric ID expert and Red Book Committee member, S. Michael Marcy. Mike was Dr. Feigin's senior resident when Dr. Fieign was an intern, and told a story when Dr. Feigin first came to rounds. The Chief Resident told Mike, "Mike this guy Ralph is starting with you; I think he's smarter than you and I know he's smarter than me". For the past 20 years, Dr. Feigin was pivotal in all aspects of my professional and personal life: 1) when my fellowship at DC Children's fell through because of their financial problems, I called Dr. Feigin and he created a job for me to start the Acute Treatment Area in the EC with Milton Nirken for a year 2) when I finished my nephrology fellowship, only four entry level faculty jobs were posted (Kentucky, New Mexico, Nebraska and Einstein). Fortunately, I ran into Dr. Brewer and told her I was going to Kentucky. She said, "Don't sign". Dr. Brewer called Dr. Feigin, who said "There will always be a job for Stuart Goldstein at Baylor". One final story, I was awarded the second TCH SuperStar Physician Award, the first of course was awarded to Dr. Feigin. He called me to congratulate me, I remarked how proud I was to have my name next to his on any list. I list that award on my CV, which always draws attention from others reviewing it, and I love to tell that story. I could share more, many of them personal, but always they exemplify how Dr. Feigin was completely there and present for whomever was in front of him, always returned a phone call or letter with a call or handwritten note of encouragement and appreciation for the work we do for the Department and the Hospital. It will take many years to sink in that Dr. Feigin isn't physically there or present, and it will never feel right in the Hospital that he built. Katerina Constantacos Connection: Former Resident Organization: Location: Story:     Among all other skills, Dr. Feigin's time-management skills are amazing. When preparing a article for publication with Dr. Feigin I gave him the final draft for review and he contacted me the same day to review in person the recommendations that he had made. As he had advised us upon entering Residency,"the best time to take care of something is right away". He can never be forgotten nor replaced. Kimbereley Edwards Connection: Nurse on Transplant Unit Organization: Nursing Location: Missouri City, TX Story:     Dr.Feigin has always been a pleasant person to be around he had a infectious smile that would always be remembered. He greeeted me often over the 22 years that I have work for TCH. He greeted me one morning to let me know how happy he was to be in the presence of one of the Top Nurses here at TCH in 2005. He saluted me in 2006 along with other members in administration for being used as an example in the Nurse Salute for the Houston Chronicle for advertising for TCH. I felt very honoured that he felt that I have made a difference here. He will truly be missed. Mary Thomas Connection: Colleague Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I will miss Dr. Feigin making rounds here on 12 WT. He had a very pleasant smile, and would always greet you with nothing but a smile. Yvonne Lewis Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I didn't know Dr. Feigin personally, but through the years working at TCH, I would often meet and greet him in the hallways on 5S/12WT. Dr. Feigin always had a greeting smile on his face as if it was painted there. Dr. Feigin is a legend within himself. He will be missed here at TCH. Leslie Lace Wells Connection: Resident and former Chief Resident Organization: Location: Austin Story:     This very day I told a medical student that when a patient has a headache, a fever, and a rash, you must think of rickettsial disease...straight from Feigin rounds. Children in Houston, in Texas, and across the country and indeed the world will always be touched by the leadership and teaching of Dr. Feigin. I'll forever be thankful to have spent four years under his tutelage. Brian Talbot Connection: Colleague Organization: TCPA Location: Pearland, TX Story:     What can I say about a man who was so instrumental in making me what I am? He inpired and guided me through some of the toughest decisions of my life, and always brought out my best. He never failed to pick up the phone when you needed him the most and I hope I can help continue his great legacy at TCH. I sure will miss him. Gabriella Cardone Connection: Colleague Organization: TCH Location: Houston, TX Story:     The things that Dr. Feigin has done for me and my family I can't explain here, it is something I keep in my heart. I am sure we will read a lot of stories about the example he is for all of us. We all know he is “just a very special person”. So instead, I started thinking what we can do to keep him alive and to keep TCH being TCH, after all he has been the heart of TCH. Well, I think there is just one way to do it. It will require every one of us to make one Ralph Feigin and it will still be impossible. But if we commit to be the best in everything we do, as human beings, in our work, in our ethics, in our love, our compassion, our time management, our strengths and tenderness, our timing and punctuality, our core values, if we love life and enjoy everything we do and we share it with others with our attitude everyday. If we are courageous and are not afraid to fight for a better world for the children of tomorrow and are not selfish and bring the best of our selves to work, to our families to everything we do….then we will keep him alive. So why don’t we launch a campaign to keep him alive and share his legacy with the residents, students and employees to come…….? Marianka Pille Connection: Former Resident Organization: Location: Iowa City, IA Story:     What to say about someone so influential in my life... I am grateful that Dr. Feigin gave so much energy and talent to so many people, both patients and colleagues. I feel so fortunate to have been trained at Texas Children's, by Dr. Feigin and the faculty he built. I am very sad at his passing and can't imagine the place without him. John Zaia Connection: Colleague Organization: City of Hope Location: Duarte, CA Story:     As an intern at St. Louis Children's Hospital, I remember the scary moments just prior to presenting a case to Ralph. Back when you had to do the CBC yourself on last night's admissions. Ralph would conduct rounds as only he could. I remember especially the Saturday morning rounds, still sleepy, listening to his differential diagnosis. Who among us does not still include chikungunya fever in most work-ups? But as students we thrived, and some of us even went into Pediatric ID. It is experiences like these with Ralph, which so many students have shared over the years, joining him on sojourns into the depths and details of medicine, that made him the wonderful teacher, and us the beneficiaries. Thanks, Ralph, for stretching our minds. Doreen Osterholm, PA-C Connection: Baylor and TCH employee Organization: Location: Houston Story:     Texas and Houston and the world have lost a great man. The lives of many will never be the same due to his influence and care and knowledge. Kimberly Avila Edwards Connection: Former Resident Organization: Austin Regional Clinic Location: Austin, TX Story:     It would be quite an accomplishment if I could be a small portion of the influence in someone else's life that Dr. Feigin was for me. His intellectual brilliance and even greater contribution to humanity has left quite a void in our world. I thank you Dr. Feigin for caring for each and every person you touched as deeply and personally as you did. You taught me what strength, determination, and genuine kindness look like on a daily basis. I can only hope to honor you by emulating you. May God bless you and your family. You will be greatly missed. Jackie Ramchatesingh Connection: Former Resident and now working for TCPA Organization: TCPA Location: Houston Story:     As everyone else has said Dr. Feigin was truly an inspiration. One can hardly express in words though the true essence of his life and meaning to us. I can only say that he played an invaluable role in my Resident life at Texas Children's and even perhaps more so after wards. There was never an email or phone call that he did not personally respond to. We can never forget many of the invaluable lessons he has taught us as Residents. His loss really feels as great to me as if he was a member of my own family. I will miss seeing him and especially that infectious smile of his but I know that he is at peace. I wish his family comfort during this difficult period and hope that perhaps they will find comfort in knowing what a great person he was and that we are all in our own way grieving for him. Hubert Ho Connection: TCPA Physician Organization: TCPA Location: Sugar Land, TX Story:     Besides being an incredible and brilliant physician, educator, and administrator, Dr. Feigin was an incredible human being. He really cared for me and everyone he was associated with. He cared about how we felt and what we thought. He also made you feel important despite how important he was. He has touched my life in unfathomable ways. I am the pediatrician and person that I am today because of his love for me. Jackie Crowley Connection: Volunteer at Texas Children's Organization: Location: Story:     Dr. Feigin, was very helpful to me when I chaired the Auxiliary 05 Pediatric Spirituality Symposium. We had a great chat about possible speakers and also what it was like to be going into our 70's. He was a great supporter of the volunteers. I'm happy I had the chance to meet him. Julianne Connection: Texas Children's Hospital employee Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Dear Dr. Feigin, I have worked for Texas Children's Hospital for many years and have only ever had the opportunity to admire you from afar, much like a fan to a "Super Star". The knowledge I have of you came from either our CHECK IT OUT circular, e-mails, or television interviews that shared your spectacular accomplishments and your kind givings. Just like I know the President of the United States, I knew you as one of our great leaders. I thank you for all the unselfish and generous care you have given to each and every patient and for the guidance you have given this great institution. A Super "Star" has ascended. I will miss you. God speed. Ankur Connection: Fellow Organization: Location: Story:     Despite his busy schedule, he always made time for you. Back when I was a resident, I needed to set up a meeting with him, and I called 2 weeks ahead of the day I wanted to meet. He answered the phone himself, and scheduled to meet me that day. This happened on two occasions! When recalling my own story to my co-workers, they all had the same story. Dr. Feigin will be missed. Siby Moonnumakal Connection: Resident/Fellow Organization: Location: Houston, TX Story:     Dr. Feigin has played a role in my life from the time I interviewed for medical school through this very day. I still cannot fathom how one man could be so great at so many things: medical knowledge, research, clinical acumen, interpersonal skills, leadership, charity, and even basketball. I, like all the others who trained under him, marveled at his tireless work schedule yet always personal touch in those he cared for and worked with. I will treasure the moments I shared with him and his wife in their home when he invited medical students and residents for their birthdays. I continue to wonder how he could come up with such extravagant differentials on a whim in "Feigin Rounds". Most importantly, I will never forget the time my mother-in-law informed me that he had been checking on my daughter in the NICU without my ever asking. I owe my medical education and career to his faith in me, and I will always be grateful for the opportunities he provided me. He has trained and inspired a generation of doctors in Houston during his time here, and his legacy shall live on through us forever. Reza Connection: Employee Organization: Respiratory Location: Story:     I have seen him many times with a smile in the hall way. I know his passionate smile has given many children smiles for life, and his spirit lives forever in each child he touched at TCH. Asad Mian Connection: Former Resident/Fellow/Trainee Organization: TCH/BCM Location: Houston, TX Story:     I was always amazed at the promptness with which Dr. Feigin would respond to my emails at all times of the day or night! His replies were always encouraging. His work habits showed a tremendous amount of energy and reserve that I have seen in very few people. I will miss him a lot... Carol Matsumoto Connection: RN Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     One morning near the end of a long and very busy shift, I was surprised to see Dr. Feigin at the bedside of a child I was caring for. After filling Dr. Feigin in on the child's night, he thanked me and smiled before leaving. That was my first encounter with Dr. Feigin, and one I will never forget. It really set the tone for my experience as a nurse at Texas Children's. He was inspiring and so dedicated to pediatric healthcare, but more importantly, he truly cared about each and every child under his care, every resident, every nurse, every co-worker. He held himself to a higher standard and therefore inspired others to do the same. I feel blessed. Paula & John Hutchinson Connection: Patient Family Member Organization: Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Both literally and figuratively, Dr. Feigin is responsible for the fact that our daughter is alive. Without this incredible institution he guided and shaped, she would not have lived longer than a few hours, much less survived to receive a transplant and live a full life for 20 years. More specifically, he and his team kept her alive 3 years ago during a vicious infectious disease attack. He made her feel like she was the most important patient in the entire hospital, continually giving her(and us)the encouragement and confidence that she would get better. Although we are only one family among the hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions, whose lives were changed here at TCH, he was incredibly important to us, and we deeply mourn his death. Our gratitude to him for his life of service is boundless. Heidi Russell Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Children's Cancer Center Location: Houston, Texas Story:     When I was a medical student in Alabama, I applied to Baylor to do a visiting rotation at Texas Children's Hospital. One afternoon I got a phone call from soemone at TCH to discuss my options for my rotation. I was about 5 minutes into the call before I realized I was actually speaking with Dr Feigin! He was such a positive influence on me and my career choices. I am truly fortunate to have been one of his trainees. Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Childen's Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I met Dr. Feigin a couple of years ago when he brought his daughter in with his grandchild to have a scan. He was very nice and had a smile that could warm anyone's heart. He was a very down to earth person and I sure will miss him. Jennifer Lusk Connection: Co-worker Organization: Texas Childrens Hospital Location: Houston, Texas Story:     Although I was never formally introduced to Dr. Feigin, I was always comforted by his warm, gracious smile each morning while walking down the halls of Texas Childrens Hospital. His fast paced walk, his incredible smile and his compassion will be missed deeply. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin, MD Connection: Colleague Organization: Baylor College of Medicine Location: Houston, Texas Story:     I have respected Dr. Feigin for many years. I came to interview at Baylor during my senior year of fellowship in Boston. I was so amazed at how personable Dr. Feigin was with me, even though he was an international phenomenon in pediatrics. What amazed me most during the interview was that he had completely memorized my entire CV! Dr. Feigin quoted items off of my CV that I had even forgotten were on there. He spoke to me as if he had known me my entire life. I was immediately drawn to him. Dr. Feigin had a way of making a person want to be a better physician and a better person in general. I shared this interview experience with a friend of mine who stated that he had the same experience with Dr. Feigin when he interviewed at Baylor; Dr. Feigin had also memorized his CV. This demonstrated to me how personable Dr. Feigin was even with interview candidates and how personally invested he was in his faculty. I will miss him terribly, and I cherish all of my fond memories of Dr. Feigin. Desiree Evans Connection: Former Baylor resident and now TCPA physician Organization: TCPA-Cullen Location: Houston, TX Story:     Before I came to Baylor to interview for residency, I had heard that Baylor was a very hard pediatrics program and people were not very nice and because it was so big, no one would even know me. Well, my first encounter with Dr. Feigin was phenomenal! As many of you have experienced, he knew me and many things about me and my family and he made me feel so welcomed from the moment I came to Baylor/TCH. I knew from that moment that this is where I wanted to start my pediatrics career. In the 9 years that I have been here in Houston, he has continued to make me feel like a member of his family. He has helped myself and my family out in ways that are just fantastic!! I am extremely sad that Dr. Feigin is gone and I know that there will never be anyone like him, but I have committed myself to continue to carry on his legacy and care and concern for children and be their voice to make sure every child has great medical care! Jackie Ward Connection: Employee of Texas Children's Hospital Organization: Texas Children's Hospital Location: Missouri City, Texas Story:     I don't have a story but I will certainly miss running into him every morning as he made his rounds through the breezeway, through the EC and up to the floors. He was always pleasant and had a warm smile to greet you with. He will be missed.