Wow—what a year.
It’s hard to fully grasp that this incredible journey is coming to a close. People often stop us in the hallways and ask, “Are you ready to be done? Ready for what’s next?” Our answer is always the same: “No, not really.” And we mean that—wholeheartedly.
Serving as chief residents for the Department of Medicine has been an experience that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. It has shaped us not only into better physicians and teachers but also into better people. We’ve witnessed shy interns grow into confident leaders; walked alongside residents through grief and loss; and celebrated with joy countless marriages, births, fellowship matches and job offers. We’ve felt immense pride as we have watched our residents grow, but also felt deep humility as we realized just how much we have left to learn.
This year, we’ve been surrounded by a community who has taught us more than we could have imagined, trusted us in times of uncertainty, and supported us through our mistakes. The four of us started this year as a group of friends, but we are ending it as a family. We have leaned on each other, laughed and cried together, and showed up for one another day in and day out. We have formed a bond that will assuredly last a lifetime. And none of that would have been possible without this job—and without all of you.
A wise mentor once told us: “Your life is not about you. And when you realize that, everything makes a lot more sense.” That truth has become the foundation of how we see medicine and education. It’s not about us—it’s about the patients, the residents, and the community we serve. And what a beautiful calling that is.
To our mentors, colleagues, and residents—thank you for trusting us with this immense privilege. We will carry the lessons of this year and the relationships we’ve built with us always.
Blake, Jaslyn, Chad, and Kelly
Dr. Blake Leblanc will be joining faculty in internal medicine at Baptist Medical Center.
Dr. Jaslyn Paschal will be starting fellowship in Endocrinology at UMMC.
Dr. Chad Hierlmeier will be joining faculty in the Division of Hospital Medicine at UMMC.
Dr. Kelly Dale will be joining faculty in the Division of Hospital Medicine at UMMC.
Progress Notes 