To the Editor:
To anyone who chooses to read further, thank you in advance, in the most sincere terms imaginable. I wish to publicly offer my apology to family, friends, colleagues, my patients, the Sisters, board of directors, administration, employees of Avera Queen of Peace Hospital, the community and to anyone else who feels involved.
It is my hope that any individuals who have been drawn into this controversy will forgive me and the language that was printed. I was disappointed with The Daily Republic's March 6 editorial and I used language which was inappropriate; that language was an expression of my frustration and does not portray my true feelings. Most of us are immigrants and all of us are created equal and my remarks in no way reflect my personal beliefs. I apologize for my choice of words.
The dream of all South Dakotans is for their children to come back home. I regret that I did not come up with that line myself, even though I, too, had that dream. I have practiced medicine as a surgeon in Mitchell for over 26 years and I love this community. For years I have looked forward to practicing with my son, and now I am not sure I will have that opportunity.
On a positive note, the original article, which appeared in the Feb. 28 edition of The Daily Republic regarding young physicians returning to Mitchell, was very affirming to our community and others whose children have returned home. Too often I forget to praise the good.
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I am committed to continuing the practice of medicine in Mitchell at Avera Mitchell Surgical. I will be out of the office for a while and will use that time for self-reflection and I am committed to making some positive changes. Once again, I apologize and I am hoping for your support and acceptance.
Jerome Howe, M.D.
Mitchell
