Dr. Sung Keun Lee

Dr. Sung Keun Lee, of Somerset, NJ, passed away from complications stemming from Respiratory Failure, Pneumonia and Stage IV lung cancer in the ICU at RWJUH on Tuesday, July 20th. 
 
In his own words (translated and edited from Korean)... 
 
"As I reflect upon my life, I've lived in a very turbulent and changing world. I was born at a time and place where there was little to no electricity. Growing up, I witnessed the tragic Korean War and moved to the South as the country was split in two. Under difficult circumstances, I went on to medical school and later moved to the US where I lived more than half my life. During that time, I witnessed all the amazing advancements in science and technology. Having witnessed all this, I don't have any desiderium left. And, I don't have any regrets in life as I believe I always tried my best. It was a blessing that I could work up until my last days. Being a doctor was my dream job. I count myself fortunate that my work could contribute to people's well being and that my work did no harm to others. Now at the end of my time, I am thankful that I was able to live over 80 years happily and in peace. I realized that the real meaning of a true fulfilling life is to spend it sharing your warm heart with the people around you and not in the pursuit of money, fame or power. I'm also relieved that I could die without being a burden to my family and friends. Please don't be sad for me. I want you to go back to the same normal life as before. When you are sad, cry, and get over it."
 
The family would like to thank all the wonderful staff at RWJUH Somerset. Dr. Lee spent nearly 50 years serving at the hospital he considered his home. He truly loved the staff at the hospital and his patients like family. A special thank you to Dr. Dobrescu, Dr. Ceppetelli, Dr. Rodricks, and the nursing staff (Kirk, Patti, Carlos, Ryan, Leticia, Allison, Laura, Iris, Jude and the IMCU partners in crime) for taking extra special care of Dr. Lee during his final days.
 
Dr. Lee is survived by his wife, two sons, three grandchildren and two daughters-in-law. The family held a private funeral. In lieu of any flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in Dr. Lee's honor to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. http://events.stjude.org/sklee

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