Thank you, Dr Rebbeck, for your “Back to basics” editorial that appeared in a recent issue [BCMJ 2007;49(10):530 [9]]. 

I was a junior resident on your service when you were working at the UBC Hospital and enjoyed the time that I worked with you because of your back-to-basics approach. 

I have found time and time again that if you just listen to your patient they will tell you the answer, and even though I am just a plastic surgeon I have found that advice to be extremely helpful.  

Just thought I would send a short note to acknowledge your contribution to my training, which continues to this day. 

—Nancy Van Laeken, MD
Vancouver