Master Abraham

How could you not love a guy like this?


I must be a selfish blogger. Most of my friends have cute little family blogs that talk all about their husbands and kids. My blog, however, is my own. It is not nor was ever intended to be a family blog. In fact, the thought never crossed my mind that it could or would or should be such a thing. Perhaps this is why I seldom mention the other half of my little family except in passing. Poor guy teases me a bit about this sometimes...I figure he deserves a good shout out more often. He definately deserves it today.

Abraham is currently in his 4th year of a 7+ year medical/PhD program. He just finished up his second year of research and yesterday the culmination of his PhD course work with what is called the gut wrenching Comprehensive Exam. After weeks of preparation, Abraham submitted two proposals for a genetic research project unrelated to his current project. Then, his committee selected one for him to look at more in depth. He was given the topic of diabetes to study. After more several weeks, Abraham prepared a 43 page research proposal after thorough research and design of a project he (nor likely anyone else) will ever pursue. Finally, he was required to present an oral presentation after which he was rigorously questioned by the five genetic experts on his committee for almost two hours. After a few minutes of deliberation, he was finally given the fantastic news that he PASSED! Yay.

Abe often downplays the importance of the work he is doing. While at times it can be discouraging and progress is slow, he is making exciting discoveries about a gene in mice (similar to one in humans) that causes deafness and skin problems in infants. His hard work is attempting to use gene therapy to cure these diseases in his mice and hopefully eventually lead to discoveries in helping humans. It has been a tough year to see all of his medical school classmates move on as doctors to their residencies, but I know his hard work will pay off.

So, now he is free to focus solely on his project without worrying about classes or exams. I am very proud of him. The work he has done is equal to a masters degree so although it feels like there are few milestones on the long path to research, he has really climbed a big hill.

Congratulations ABEY!