Dr. Tupasi led by example and she was a good mentor. I have a lot of memories about her and I remember her well.
I remember her humility. She had a lot of dedication to her work and she had willingness to share her knowledge. She frequently asked about the things I have read and that I should keep her updated about new information. I found it rather unusual for a student to teach a consultant but she was humble enough to listen.
I remember her kindness. She took time with every patient she had during rounds. She would sit on a chair or a couch and started the conversation with “ Kumusta ka na?”. The conversations were not just about their illness but they were also about their physical and emotional state. She showed care and she knew each patient’s name as well as their back-story. The conversations were heartfelt and genuine
I remember her enthusiasm. She had boundless energy that it would often seem that she had no limits. She made rounds in the morning as well as in the evening. She exhibited enthusiasm with seeing patients in her clinic, doing rounds with her fellows, attending conferences, presiding over ICC meetings, and helping fellows with their research. She gave everything and it was difficult not to be infected by her enthusiasm.
I remember her teachings. Going on rounds with Dra. Tupasi was extraordinary for me. Our rounds (during my fellowship training at Makati Med) took longer than usual. My routine during rounds, however, was nothing compared to Dra. Tupasi. She was very meticulous with the details and she showed kindness all the way. These things were never taught in any of the books I’ve read.
I remember the warmth of her presence. I met Dra. Tupasi during her trip to Silliman University Medical Center. She had her team with her and we were introduced by Dr. Amante (then the chairman of the department at SUMC). I guess Dr. Amante must have put in a good word for me because when I applied at Makati Med, Dra. Tupasi immediately asked me when I could start fellowship. I was happy to know I got in. I had difficulty adjusting during fellowship but Dra. Tupasi helped me out significantly.
She had a personal interest in the mentoring relationship. She would bring us to their house and shared everything with us. I even had the privilege of going to Puerto Azul and it felt good being part of her family as she treated each of the fellows as her own. As a fellow from the province, all of this was unsolicited privilege. She accepted me unconditionally.
I remember who she was. She was a very intelligent woman who was very good at research and statistics. I had a hard time keeping up with her but she always had this positive attitude and acts positively in the mentoring relationship. She was respected by colleagues and employees in all levels of the organization and she achieved personal and professional goals. She valued the opinions and initiatives of others and motivated others by setting a good example. She had a good partner in Dr. Ramos as she continued to be kind and caring.
To Dra. Tupasi, you listened and you understood me. You smiled and you laughed. You loved and you really cared. You showed me the way and you led the way. You were the perfect leader.
Dr. Tupasi led by example and she was MY mentor.