Cultivating the Mind and Heart
It was a chance meeting with the brother of a Good Samaritan doctor during his undergraduate studies that led to a job as a surgical technician, a job that "changed everything," says Dr. Welling. During his general surgery training at Harvard he discovered his natural talent and desire to teach younger residents, noting, "I'd rather teach someone how to perform a surgery instead of doing it myself."
When Dr. Welling returned to Good Samaritan he began teaching, and soon after took on the simultaneous roles of Chairman of the Department of Surgery, Program Director of General Surgery Residency, and Program Director of Vascular Surgery Residency. After 25 years in these positions, he became the Vice President of Academic Affairs for TriHealth until his retirement in 2015. When asked to reflect about his time at Good Samaritan, Dr. Welling says, "I'm proud of the residents I trained. Some of them are now surgical program directors themselves all over the country. It feels good that they have continued the legacy of teaching others."
Throughout his career, both he and Darlene have generously given back to Good Samaritan through support of various efforts within medical education as well as The Good Samaritans' Gala. Darlene served as Gala Chair in 2003 and Co-Chair in 2011. Emphasizing the importance of philanthropy, Darlene says, "I'm strictly of the philosophy that to whom much is given, much is expected. We feel extremely blessed, and to be able to give back through the Foundation is a wonderful thing."
The impact of Dr. Welling's work culminated in a surprise gift at his retirement celebration. Dr. Kevin Grannan, Program Director of General Surgery Residency, and Dr. George Kerlakian, Chairman of the Department of Surgery, worked with the Foundation to raise more than $250,000 to create the Richard E. Welling, MD Fund for Resident Leadership Training. "It was pretty special," says Dr. Welling. "It was something they knew I would appreciate, and it will last forever." He and Darlene were so touched and inspired that they donated $25,000 to the funds as well. "Resident leadership training is so important. It really makes them better people and better physicians," Dr. Welling remarks.
Just as they cultivate the crops, bees, and other animals on their farm, Dr. Richard and Darlene Welling will continue to cultivate the minds and hearts of generations of physicians to come. The impact of their work and their gifts will continue to grow as they shape the future for the better, one person at a time.