I read the excellent articles on Drs. Delaney, Cassone and McGannon. They have all been vital to the health and well-being of not only Orangeburg but surrounding counties.

I would, however, add four more physicians to your list of those who made a difference: Drs. Jack Rheney, Marion Caughman, Thomas Gue and Ben Pendarvis Jr.

These physicians brought an entirely new level of care to the children of a four-county area. Before their arrival, children were treated (medically) like “little adults.” This all changed with their arrival.

The ideas of growth and development, infant nutrition, immunization practices, school/behavior problems, adolescent medicine, screenings for lead/blood disorders, medicine dosages based on body weight, and a host of other pediatric concepts were introduced to the community by these pioneers. There are a huge number of adults as well as children whose health and well-being are directly attributable to the “new concept” of pediatrics that these gentlemen brought to the area.

Also, Dr. Pendarvis, as South Carolina Chapter president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, helped bring new policies that brought enhancements in pediatric care to all the children of South Carolina.

I would be remiss if I didn’t also recognize that they were responsible for bringing us “young pediatricians” to the community, teaching us how to be effective physicians, and offering us insights that only experience can teach.

New hat and clothes for the new baby − $25.

New car seat for the new baby − $75.

The pediatrician answering the phone call, offering calming and accurate advice (and agreeing to see the child, if necessary) for the frantic parent of the new child − PRICELESS!

Thanks to all of you from all of us,

− Charles Kilgore, MD FAAP Pediatric Hospitalist, The Regional Medical Center

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