Dr. Lonnie MacDonald, MD

I have known Lonnie since 1965, and knew the moment I first saw him that he was the doctor I could trust and work with. He was my psychiatrist for six years, and remains a dear friend. I am white and he is black, which gave added depth to my development. I cannot say enough about his integrity, his warmth and humanity, and his professional skill. Age 35 I found a lump in one breast, and early Christmas Eve morning had it removed for biopsy. Lonnie called my surgeon and was told the diagnosis--cancer. That afternoon he "just happened" to drop by my hospital room as I was anxiously waiting to hear from my doctor--no one ele would give me any information-- and "just happened" to be there with me and my husband when the doctor finally telephoned (!) to say briefly that I had a malignant tumor and he would see me at 7 AM the day after Christmas for a radical mastectomy. It was, of course, a big shock, and Lonnie stayed to chat with us for about an hour. Months later I heard the full… story. Before visiting me he had called his Mother in Pennsylvania to say he could not go home for Christmas--for which she had been preparing for weeks--because he had a patient who needed him. But after seeing me he had paid me the great compliment of calling his Mother again to say that he could come after all, because his patient was dealing with the news and did not need him, and he took the next train home. Lonnie was the adored and most successful member of his family. His visits were red letter occasions, particularly at Christmas. I consider that degree of deep, unselfish caring for a patient even at the risk of disappointing his own beloved family is the epitome of professional responsibility. I know no greater recommendation of him as a man and as a physician. What I learned with his help has been and continues to be a positive influence for all the rest of my life.