On Sept. 11, the United States and its citizens were brutally attacked. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families, and our heartfelt thanks to the thousands of firefighters, law enforcement officers and other heroes who lost their own lives trying to save others.

That afternoon, I sent a request to Maine physicians to respond by volunteering to assist those injured in the attacks, if we were called upon to do so. In less than 48 hours, more than 300 physicians, nurses and emergency medical personnel offered to drop whatever obligations they had to go to wherever they were needed – immediately.

Regretfully, there were few survivors of this horrific attack. The request to help never came. But I want to thank these Maine physicians and other health care providers who demonstrated affirmatively why they went into medicine – to serve.

I encourage all Maine health care professionals to assist in this crisis in any way possible. If our professional services are not needed, then let us assist by donating blood, and by financially contributing.

The Maine Medical Association will accept contributions and forward them to the Medical Education and Scientific Foundation of New York Inc./Disaster. This fund has been established by the Medical Society of the State of New York to assist in the effort to refine and further develop plans that could be used to respond to similar disasters. The fund is able to accept tax-deductible contributions. As President Bush said so eloquently, may God grant us wisdom and watch over America. We will not tire, falter or fail.

Richard A. Evans, M.D.

President

Maine Medical Association