Monday, November 23, 2009

Tragedy On The Mountain

Dr.  Wes Walczak was one of a kind.

He had a reputation for being an excellent medical doctor. Clinically, he was extremely astute, and he had a quirky ability to figure out what was going on rather quickly when dealing with a sick patient. This gift he had undoubtedly saved a number of his patients’ lives. At least that is what has been said, but I believe it.

I personally did not know Dr. Walczak well, but I did see him from time to time at the Elliot Hospital emergency department. He would often come in if one of his patients had been transported to the ED to work with the attending doc or the hospitalist on behalf of his patients. It was a hallmark of his that many people who were his patients really appreciated. And the few times I spoke or interacted with him were positive. I found him to not only be professional in how he did his job, but I also thought he was a nice guy. Maybe a little strange, but hey – who isn’t?

He was an avid hiker, and he reportedly knew the Presidential Range in the White Mountains well. Unfortunately, sometimes even if you know a place well it has a nasty way of reminding you who is really in charge.

When he hadn’t returned Saturday from a day hike, his wife notified authorities and a search was initiated. Rescuers found his body Sunday morning at the Tuckerman Ravine headwall. The pitch in the area of the headwall is reported to be quite steep, and it’s suspected that he fell.

He was 62 years old.

Rest in peace, Dr. Walczak.

Wieslaw Walczak, MD

Physician

Hiker

Healer

2 comments:

Elizabeth @ The Garden Window said...

How desperately sad......
Memory Eternal !

Susie Hemingway said...

Sad post but dare I say most interested. R.I.P Amen Dr Wes Walczak