TULANE TALK

April 1, 2004

Dear Members of the Tulane Community:

I wanted to bring to your attention a story on the front page of today’s http Street Journal. It is an article about Tulane University medical student Andy Martin.

Andy’s story, which I first heard about from a few of his medical school colleagues, has touched my heart in a way I cannot adequately express. It is a story of courage, character, hope and persistence in the face of extreme difficulties. It is about adversity, friendship and the critical importance research plays in our lives. It is also about how a faculty member, in this case Dr. Tyler Curiel, can play such a profound role in the life of a student.

Andy’s story left me with a sense of joy and hope, sadness and disappointment and, most of all, with the utmost respect and admiration for a young man and his mentors that represent the best of what people can be and do. I know I speak for the entire Tulane community in offering our thoughts, hope and prayers as Andy continues his journey of discovery.

P.S. If you would like to learn more about Andy’s work please visit http://www.bounceforlife.org