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Team Vlad cyclists are training and fund-raising for the Pan Mass Challenge in August.
A master of the art, science and humanity of medicine, anesthesiologist Vlad Formanek, MD, has been a valuable mentor and teacher of residents and fellows just starting out in their careers, as well as a reassuring presence for patients in his care for the past 15 years at BWH.
“If there’s one person in our department who everyone wants to emulate, it’s Vlad,” said Danny Muehlschlegel, MD, of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine. “He is a phenomenal clinician and wonderful teacher who is always cheerful and positive.”
Formanek was diagnosed with brain cancer and suffered a stroke in December. Now 22 of his colleagues in Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine and throughout the hospital are preparing to ride the two-day Pan Mass Challenge in Formanek’s honor. The bike-a-thon has raised more than $240 million for cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where Formanek is undergoing chemotherapy.
“We hope that the money raised through this ride will find him and others a cure,” Muehlschlegel said.
Formanek’s presence at BWH is missed by his colleagues. He is one of the few anesthesiologists who perform most types of cases—cardiac, thoracic and others. He ran the floor in the OR, was head of the Anesthesiology Faculty Board and took more call than anyone. “Residents and fellows would often tell me, ‘I want to be like Vlad, good at everything,’” Muehlschlegel said.
Formanek lent his compassion and skills to Team Heart last year, participating on the team’s first surgical mission to Rwanda and working on all 11 cases with two other anesthesiologists. He also routinely travels to Africa as a volunteer for The Smiling Train, a group that repairs facial deformities in children.
“He did so much,” Muehlschlegel said.
Team Vlad member Barry Shopnick, PA-C, of Cardiac Surgery, agreed. “We can’t wait to get him back.”
The team will hold a fund-raiser June 19 at 7 p.m. at the Dedham Health and Athletic Complex’s Summer Club. Enjoy a three-course dinner, live band, dancing, raffles and an auction. Tickets are $50, and can be purchased through the BWH Perks office. Proceeds are donated through the Pan Mass Challenge to the Jimmy Fund at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Visit www.ride4vlad.com for more information.