Rich Stein is a frequent commenter on “06880.”
Today he has the talking stick, for an entire story. The subject is one even dearer to his heart than Compo or food.
It’s his father.
Rich says:
We often hear parents boast about their children, but how often is it the other way around?
I want to take this moment to do just that.
Steve and Linda Stein.
My father — Stephen Stein, MD — has stood by my mother Linda for nearly 50 years. Adding the fact that they knew each other as early teens, that number is even higher.
My father has been a supporter of all my brothers and sisters’ endeavors. He logged more hours going to baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, wrestling and swim events than I can count. My father barely missed a single sporting event I participated in. I realize I am very lucky, and very humbled by this amazing fact.
His dedication didn’t end when I left the athletic field. When I became a wrestling coach I had a meet near Waterbury Hospital, where he practiced for over 30 years. I invited him to come by if he could. Unfortunately, he said he was busy.
After my team warmed up, I looked across the fieldhouse. I saw my busy father strolling in. He made time to see his son coach his wrestling team, and cheer as loudly as he did when I was on the mat.
I can also proudly say that my father has been a class speaker in nearly every one of my siblings’ science classes, speaking about medicine, radiation, isotopes, and other expert areas.
My father has been a cheerleader, defender, advocate, educator and supporter of his 5 children, 10 grandchildren and wife. He is a true role model.
The extended Stein family.
Back in the day, my father won a full scholarship to Columbia from the Pulitzer Foundation. He also was a Merit Scholar, which enabled him to go to Albert Einstein School of Medicine. For over 30 years he has been a pioneer, educator, and a top-notch radiologist. He has written papers, given talks, consulted and been a mentor to many.
Last Sunday April 27 my father was inducted as a fellow in the American College of Radiology, in Washington. It is a huge, and rare, honor.
In addition, for 4 years running my father has been voted by the residents and interns of Bridgeport Hospital as their favorite teaching MD.
My father always lived vicariously through his children’s accomplishments. Now, with as much pride, I too want to boast about the man who has cheered Michael, Richard, Rebecca, Evan and Sara for over 4 decades. We all could not be prouder of your accomplishment and honor. Westport, Waterbury, Bridgeport, and all those places in between have been lucky to have such a great man in their presence.
