In Memoriam: Jim Meeks, PA-C, DFAPPA
From Charles B. Dillehay, MBA, CAE, executive director of the Association of Family Practice PAs:
It is my very sad and humble duty to report that our dear friend and colleague, Jim Meeks, died on Tuesday, April 28, 2009, at 6:15 AM. He suffered a long lingering battle with Sarcoma that included radiation, chemo and radical surgery. I know we will all miss Jim. He was a wonderful family man, clinician, leader, and much more. Personally speaking, Jim was an inspiration to me in many, many ways and I considered him a close friend and mentor. Although we will miss him, his suffering and pain is now over and he is at peace. Please keep Jim’s family in your thoughts and prayers.
At one point Jim said, "I can honestly say that I am not discouraged. We have been richly blessed and continue to be spiritually and temporally. We put our faith in God and trust in his watchful care. We are humbled at the response of friends, family and many PAs and NPs I have never met. This truly has been a humbling experience for me. I have always been the guy to advocate for my patients and now to be on the other end has been an amazing growing experience. I truly value all my colleagues´ good friendship and encouragement. You ARE ALL my heroes."
No, Jim...you are ours.
As soon as we have information on funeral arrangements and memorial contributions, we will pass them on.
In addition to being president of the Association of Family Practice PA, an ADVANCE for Physician Assistants editorial advisory board member and our "Practice Profitability" columnist, Jim was a great PA and a great man. He will be greatly missed.