Our family of three moved to Friday Harbor just after 9/11.

It was a time of upheaval in the country, and transition at the Inter Island Medical Center.

For our daughter, Eva, the fresh start in a smaller community, in the middle of high school, was liberating. She thrived in her roles with the community theater, restarted the high school literary magazine, and enjoyed many close and, hopefully, life-long friendships.

For the warm welcome and encouragement she experienced here, we will always be grateful.

Both Betsy and I found meaningful work, and some of the best friendships of our lives. We have seen the community grow stronger in many ways during our time here. Ideas that started with a few spirited participants have grown into fixtures of island life: The Prevention Coalition, Brickworks, Peace Island Medical Center, and the Island Museum of Art.

It is life-affirming to live in a place where ideas matter, and where the hard work of many can create true change. For that we are grateful.

For the many people and families I have done my best to serve 24/7 during these dozen years, I am touched by your willingness to share your deepest thoughts, and brightest hopes.

I will never forget the nurses and other staff at IIMC, and now PIMC, who work night and day to give islanders and visitors the best medical and personal care possible in our relatively remote setting.

I know that due to the work of many, our exemplary health care system will now endure here for future generations. For that I am grateful.

Michael Wingren/San Juan Island (formerly)