After 43 years of service in the medicine industry in Thompson, Dr. Alan Rich has been recognized for his continuous commitment, and interest in saving peoples' lives.
Mayor Tim Johnston welcomed Rich to city hall on Oct. 6 to present the key to him. “Al, from me to you, I want to say thank you for your commitment, thank you for your dedication, and I am happy to say that no one has played more of an important role in the health care of Thompsonites, and northerners, than Dr. Alan Rich. You are to be thanked for the commitment you made.”
Rich first came to Thompson from Saskatchewan to work underground at Inco. Rich hoped to make enough money working at the mine during the summer months to put himself through medical school. He did just that, and returned to Thompson to open up his practice after graduating.
Other than being known for his work as a family physician, Rich was an Olympic-calibre judo competitor, he coached and trained judo athletes, was the physician for the Thompson Hawks, and even helped save some animals' lives too when needed.
During the council meeting where Rich was honoured, councillors had the chance to thank him personally. “It's an honour to be here for the presentation of the key to the most dedicated doctor I've ever known. When it came to cancer, I must thank you again for the almost three years you spent looking after my husband. He always looked forward to the Sunday evening visits you always made,” said Coun. Stella Locker.
Deputy mayor Dennis Fenske thanked Rich for his work with his late wife Dawn. “I've known you for many years, you delivered my youngest Kate. Secondly, in regards to general practice when you look at its definition it is ‘Dr. Rich.' With the professionalism you've shown and the commitment you have to the community, you've done a great job.”
Coun. Judy Kolada shared a story about Rich saving her son's life, and Coun. Lafreniere spoke about him saving her pet dog. “Thank you. I'm glad you're getting the key during this term of council so we get to watch it happen,” said Lafreniere.
Coun. Luke Robinson also shared his congratulations with Rich. “Thank you for everything you've done for our community. I've heard your name so many times, your name is an icon in this community. Everywhere I go people talk about Dr. Rich. You will be remembered for many years to come.”
Mayor Johnston and Coun. Locker presented Rich with the key to the City of Thompson, and through tears Rich said he wants to stay a doctor. “I appreciate it very much, thank you. I enjoy medicine, I've done a reasonable job, and I hope I can continue.”
