Dr. Tupasi led by example and she was a good mentor. I have many memories of her and remember her well.
I remember her humility. She had great dedication to her work and a willingness to share her knowledge. She frequently asked about the things I had read and wanted me to keep her updated on 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 during rounds. She would sit on a chair or a couch and start the conversation with, “Kumusta ka na?” The conversations were not just about their illness but also about their physical and emotional state. She showed care and knew each patient’s name as well as their backstory. The conversations were heartfelt and genuine.
I remember her enthusiasm. She had boundless energy that it often seemed she had no limits. She made rounds in the morning and in the evening. She exhibited enthusiasm while 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 inspired 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’s. She was very meticulous with details and showed kindness throughout. These lessons were never taught in any of the books I had 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 chairman of the department at SUMC. I guess Dr. Amante put in a good word for me because when I applied at Makati Med, Dra. Tupasi immediately asked when I could start fellowship. I was happy to know I got in. I had difficulty adjusting during fellowship, but Dra. Tupasi helped me significantly.
She had a personal interest in the mentoring relationship. She would bring us to their house and share 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 fellow as her own. As a fellow from the province, all of this was an unsolicited privilege. She accepted me unconditionally.
I remember who she was. She was a very intelligent woman, very skilled in research and statistics. I had a hard time keeping up with her, but she always had a positive attitude and acted positively in the mentoring relationship. She was respected by colleagues and employees at all levels of the organization and achieved both personal and professional goals. She valued the opinions and initiatives of others and motivated them by setting a good example. She had a good partner in Dr. Ramos, and together they continued to be kind and caring.
To Dra. Tupasi, you listened and understood me. You smiled and laughed. You loved and truly cared. You showed me the way and led the way. You were the perfect leader.
Dr. Tupasi led by example and she was MY mentor.
