Last Saturday, July 31, the Bristow community came together to congratulate and thank Dr. Chip Cooper and his office staff for their years of service in taking care of our health needs. Although everyone wore masks due to the raging COVID-19 pandemic and more dangerous delta variant, congratulations on a well-deserved retirement filled the air as elbow bumps, occasional handshakes, and cautious hugs made their rounds. A few tears strolled down the cheeks of attendants, but those tears did not flee sadness or fear; instead, those tears represented years of anguish, comedic relief and healing, and fun shared among friends, family, and neighbors.
Attendees of the office’s retirement reception, held at SpiritBank, represented every demographic of the community. Whether young or old, black or white, newer resident or long-time, Republican or Democrat, each person present represented a life changed, and in several cases, saved, by Dr. Cooper and his staff. Those present shared laughter, tears, and emotional moments of gratitude. Manytude. Many expressed brief sadness, accepting that they will be seeing a new doctor, yet no one felt sadness for the office staff. Patients shared humorous stories, gag gifts, and touching moments, knowing that they will all still see each other at events within the community.
A few of those patients shared their sentiments and well-wishes:
“They mean everything to me. He got me through some bad, bad years, and he has been wonderful to my family. I’m so, so gonna [sic] miss him because even though I know the other doctor will be good, he’s just the one. He’s everything. We could call him anytime and he was helping us. I’m really gonna [sic] miss that… I hope he has a wonderful retirement.” -Terrie Basson
“I’m sad that he’s leaving. We’ve had a good run, and he did save my life. I called him when I was out of state on a Sunday, and he told me exactly what I needed to do. If he hadn’t been there for me, I would’ve died. He saved my life… And I just love Dixie. I’ve known her for so long, and I had her little girl in Camp Fire Girls.” -Bonnie Sturgeon
“Oh, these guys, this is a cool deal. I mean, they have been here for like 40 years. They’re like family. We’re like family. It’s like a family member retiring. It’s just so cool to have them there. You know that they’re gonna [sic] take care of you. They’re gonna [sic] work you in if you have an emergency. It’s been such a cool deal to be a part of it. I’m gonna [sic] miss them… Though he’s retiring, I know where he lives, and I have his phone number. So, ya [sic] know, it’s not like he’s completely out of our lives. The ladies, ya [sic] know, Joy won’t be sticking me with those needles anymore... It’s just a great group, and I’m glad that they’re a part of Bristow. They’re just wonderful people.” -Jerry Lomenick
“We’ve been seeing him for about 40 years. He’s always been real [sic] good. We’ve enjoyed going to him because he always gives us a little more than what other doctors give. He goes above and beyond. He goes the extra mile. They always found a way to work us in when we needed to be seen.” -Peggy Gurley
“About 3 months ago, he found a serious problem that needed addressed. It was just unbelievable that he found it, and it’s being addressed quickly… We thank their efforts in always being available to us. We’re very appreciative, and we’re really going to miss them.” -Bill Gurley