In with the old, out with the new: The American Venous Forum leads the way

American Venous Forum members, distinguished guests, and representatives from industry, welcome to the 25th Silver Anniversary Annual Meeting of the American Venous Forum (AVF) here in Phoenix, Arizona. What an honor it has been to serve as your President over the past year. I am extremely humbled by this opportunity and have often felt that the only reason for my own success is that I have truly stood on the shoulders of giants in the field of venous disease. So many, both here and away, past and present, have had a profound influence on me and have ever so shaped who I am. First and foremost, I could not have made it through this year were it not for all the sacrifices put forth by my lovely wife, Erica. This past year marks 20 years of marriage for us and it has been a wonderful journey. It takes an even more special person to let someone else’s career be front and center, yet Erica’s own success as Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, university division chair, residency program director, accomplished clinician, devoted mother, supportive wife, and dear friend, keeps me in awe each and every day. I would not be here if it were not for you. To our son Bryant, and our daughter Lesley, thanks for all your support and patience e although I think you enjoyed watching me fumble through preparing dinners while trying to coordinate the many AVF conference calls. Both of you mean the world to your mother and I. A career in medicine, and particularly surgery, is privileged along every stage with the special opportunity of mentorship. It is part of our culture and we thrive on it. I have said to many that my abilities in academic surgery