Education of the radiologist: thence and whence.

Abstract

It is an axtraordinarily great honor to have the opportunity to give this first Annual Oration of the Radiological Society of North America. To be asked to participate in this unique program is overwhelming (and may well leave me speechless). This oration is in honor of Dr. Donald S. Childs, a most distinguished servant of radiology. He was a long-time stalwart officer of this Society, of tremendous integrity, with unbending aims for honesty, progress in science, and the highest attainments in the education of the radiologist. There will be no attempt to eulogize Don Childs. In the first place, it has been done; in the second place, this is no time for eulogy or for tears. We will, however, touch upon a few focal points of his life. Don Childs was born in Syracuse, New York, Jan. 5, 1888, attended the Syracuse elementary and high schools, and later matriculated at Syracuse University, graduating from the College of Medicine in 1909. He became Professor of Radiology at Syracuse University in 1914 and maintained that position until 1948, when he became Emeritus Professor, probably one of the longest careers—thirty-four years—in radiologic education to be recorded. It is of interest that he was not only Instructor but later Professor of Osteology in the same college over a period of twenty-eight years, which perhaps only emphasizes the importance of osteology in radiology and explains the trepidation experienced by examinees of the American Board of Radiology concerning anatomy of the wrist! A minute analysis or exemplification of Dr. Childs' numerous activities for organized radiology would be only repetitive. Suffice it to say that he served as Secretary and Treasurer of this organization in a truly outstanding manner for well over twenty-five years and that he contributed to the standing of its journal Radiology, placed it in the black, and kept it there. He had many interests outside of radiology, and one which was major: his wonderful family. In addition to his family, he enjoyed a great love for other people. Some of you may remember that Frank Messiah, a former head-waiter for this Hotel, returned from retirement to lead the ice parade when Donald S. Childs was honored for his twenty-five years as Secretary-Treasurer of the Radiological Society of North America. Few will know that Don Childs and Frank Messiah exchanged birthday greetings annually for many years. Another of his interests was baseball, primarily the Brooklyn Dodgers, and he followed them closely from the moment they started Spring practice as “dem bums” of Brooklyn until they were the Angels and, the Fall before his death, world champions. His love of music was something of which only a few knew. While working his way through school, he was a reporter for a Syracuse paper. Primarily he was assigned to reviews of musical productions. Thus he attended all of the new musical shows opening in Syracuse, and his acquaintance with numerous actors, actresses, and musical favorites continued throughout his life.