b'www.east.org 17Donor Thank YouI first learned about EAST when I was a surgery resident and found it to be a wonderful forum to present the results of my research. That is the beauty of the organization - its emphasis on training of residents, fellows, and junior attendings. The social and networking aspects of the meeting are a wonderful way for young surgeons and mentors to meet and collaborate. EAST has been an integral part of my surgical career, and I feel it is important to give back so that the young surgeons of today can have the same opportunities I had 30+ years ago.EAST President 2007EAST was the first organization that I joined as a resident. It gave me my first opportunity to present. It gave me my first opportunity to join a committee and, a few years later, to chair a committee. I love giving back to an organization that has fostered me through so many milestones in my trauma career.Check out additional stories by visiting our Donor Stories page. Interested in sharing your EAST donor story with our community? Please submit the following form online.'