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AOA remembers former president Wallingford
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The American Optometric Association announced the passing of Richard L. Wallingford Jr., OD, after a years-long battle with cancer.
He was the 84th president of the AOA, from 2005 to 2006, and was an extremely caring doctor, a visionary leader and a powerful voice on the national stage for expanded patient access to optometric care, according to the announcement.
Wallingford practiced in Maine, served on many optometric committees and boards, including the Maine Optometric Association and the NECO board of trustees and was a former treasurer of the World Council of Optometry.
In May 2015, the New England College of Optometry presented Wallingford with an honorary degree in recognition of his achievements in the profession and in the community. In his speech, Wallingford shared the top 10 things he wishes he had known when he graduated from NECO in 1975, according to the NECO website:
- Practice where you want to live. Choose a location for your practice carefully.
- Don’t underestimate the power of clinical experience. These experiences really matter and make you a better doctor.
- Don’t be afraid to challenge any practice modality.
- Balancing the demands of practice with a family life will be a juggling act.
- Expect the unexpected and be flexible. You cannot plan for the twists and turns your life may take.
- No matter where you practice, everyone wants a piece of your pie. Your practice will be impacted by insurance policies and practices.
- Politicians may try to change what your license allows, so get involved with state and local organizations and advocate for the profession.
- Don’t wait until tomorrow to pursue your dreams – live every day to the fullest.
- Some days your practice will be gut-wrenching.
- Some days your practice will be immensely rewarding.
“The AOA family — especially the generations of volunteers and member doctors who were fortunate enough to know and work for him — maintained a deep and lasting respect for Dick’s dedication to furthering the profession and patient eye health and vision health care,” AOA President Andrea P. Thau, OD, wrote in an announcement from the group. “He engaged everyone he met with optimism and warmth, and I was honored to call him a friend.” – by Abigail Sutton