Hank Snyder
Dr. Edward Cody was given the 2009 Physician Citizen of the Year award at a ceremony held at the Bayside Supper Club Thursday.
The Wisconsin Medical Society has named Edward Cody, its 2009 Physician Citizen of the Year.
He received the award Thursday at the Dodge County Medical Society meeting in Beaver Dam.
A family physician who retired in May after 30 years in practice with Medical Associates of Beaver Dam, Cody was recognized for his numerous volunteer efforts.
“There are many ways physicians can and do get involved in their communities to make a difference in the lives of their patients,” said Wisconsin Medical Society President Robert Jaeger, MD. “But Dr. Cody’s efforts are truly inspiring. The breadth of his involvement and commitment to his community make him an outstanding role model for all of us seeking to make our own communities stronger, safer and healthier.”
The Society’s Physician Citizen of the Year Award is awarded annually to a physician who demonstrates a commitment to their communities through volunteer or charitable activities. There is no question Cody fits that description.
For more than 10 years, Cody has served as medical director of the Beaver Dam School District, helping review policies to promote and protect health among students and staff. He has also served as medical director at Continental Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center in Randolph.
Through his church, Cody works with prison inmates at the Fox Lake Correctional Institution, leading weekly discussion groups to support and nurture their development of new behaviors. He has also helped rebuild homes in Bay St. Louis, Miss., as part of a community effort to help victims of Hurricane Katrina and has served as a Boy Scout leader.
“Helping people in need is something I think we’re called to do as physicians,” said Cody. “There are so many problems out there that are much worse than what we’ll ever experience, so those of us who can help out should. It makes a difference, and it’s something that makes you feel good at the end of the day.”
With more than 12,000 members dedicated to the best interests of their patients, the Wisconsin Medical Society is the largest association of medical doctors in the state. Visit www.wisconsinmedicalsociety.org to learn more.