So long, Dr. Riggs

It was not without some sorrow that I read in my favorite newspaper the announcement that Dr. Bob Riggs is retiring from his practice and from the House Call column (“Heartfelt farewell with some parting health advice,” 10/13/2020). Ah, everything good comes to an end!

In my country of origin, Poland, the phrase “physician, teacher, preacher,” meant that these professions were among the most respected. After reading Dr. Riggs for five years, it seems as if we are losing all three; Spokesman-review readers are losing an experiences, well-informed, no-nonsense but caring mentor, advisor and trusted friend.

In every new column, there were always helpful ideas. Whenever I had some questions about my own “ills,” I found many of the answers among Dr. Riggs’ suggestions, and could discuss them with my own very kind and knowledgeable family physician.

I hope Dr. Riggs will be able to fulfill all his dreams during his retirement. Perhaps he will write again about his new adventures, or unusual or humorous encounters with his patients.

Hopefully after the pandemic begins to recede, and we begin to move beyond the hatred dividing our beautiful country, Dr. Riggs and his wife will be on their way to a wonderful and well-deserved retirement. I am certain all of Spokane wish them the very best!

Halina Slobodow

Spokane