Tribute to Robert Yetman, MD

Someone who had worked in several industries (including NASA) once said, “Doctors are the busiest people I have ever worked with.” Of all the doctors I have ever known, Dr. Yetman worked harder than anyone. From 6 a.m. meetings to countless weekends, he never seemed to stop. Even when he took time off, it was only to go to Disney or to work uninterrupted in his office. I remember finally getting a meeting with him when he was my boss. During our brief conversation, he showed me his calendar. At times, he was triple-booked with meetings. Yet he told me something I have never forgotten: despite everything on his schedule, the most important meeting was the one he was having with me. I do not remember his exact words, but he made it clear that no matter how many responsibilities he carried, he genuinely cared about the people he worked with. I will never understand how he managed all that he did. Perhaps it was powered by Diet Coke and chocolate. What I do understand is the impact he had on those around him. He touched countless lives through his leadership, mentorship, and kindness. We will never forget him, nor the many ways he made a difference in the lives of others.