Congratulations to Lilian and Mohamed

Lilian Moalim and Mohamed Abdi with friends

by Ardo Barkhadle
Monday, August 16, 2010

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In the last two years I had the honor of attending two White Coat Ceremonies hosted by the University of Minnesota. The White Coat Ceremony was initiated by Dr. Arnold Gold at Columbia University. The purpose of this ceremony is to inform medical students, physicians, and the public at large, the importance of the white coat, in relation to patient- doctor interactions. In these ceremonies what it means to be a physician is honored and celebrated. I partook in these ceremonies because two dear friends of mine were both accepted to University of Minnesota Medical School. Ironically, Minneapolis is a city populated with Somalis, yet both candidates were Canadians.

Today I want to celebrate and share the success of my dear friends. First, I will introduce them to you. Lilian Moalim- Nour was accepted last year and has successfully completed her first year. Mohamed Abdi was accepted this year. Lilian Moalim-Nour graduated from University of Ottawa with Honours in Biochemistry, along with Masters Degree in Immunology. While Mohamed Abdi graduated from University of McMaster with Honours in Biomedical Engineering.

I have known Lilian and Mohamed since fourth grade. We went to the same elementary school, same intermediate school, and same high school. Lilian and I even attended the same University. Since I have known them this long, I can sincerely attest to their noble characters. Lilian and Mohamed are two individuals that are well known and respected in Ottawa. They are two individuals that have earned the right to serve as role models to the Somali youths. They model the essence of integrity. They are the humblest of people I know.

The road to Medical school is never easy for anyone; however, with patience and perseverance, they beat the odds. I have no doubt that Lilian and Mohamed will make great doctors, who will serve their communities and country. Although, at heart we are Canadians, our country remains Somalia. So my dear friends, I congratulate you on your success, and I pray to Allah, that your journey of medical school is filled with unforgettable memories. You have made us all proud!

Ardo Barkhadle
[email protected]

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