The Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) is profoundly saddened by the unexpected passing of Mr Assan Sam, a proud Bwgcolman man and final year James Cook University (JCU) medical student.
AIDA extends our heartfelt condolences to Assan’s family at this difficult time, and acknowledges with love and respect, the deep grief that this loss will have on the Palm Island Community, the Cape Communities and up to the Torres Strait, as well as his friends and colleagues, particularly at JCU, and our AIDA Community.
“We extend our deepest respect and care to the family and Community during Sorry Business and acknowledge everyone touched by this deep loss,” says Dr Olivia O’Donoghue, AIDA Acting President.
AIDA honours Assan’s life, his spirit and his leadership and mourns, along with his family and Community, the loss of a humble role model whose already meaningful impact will ripple out through time.
Associate Professor Dr Kris Rallah-Baker, who was providing mentorship to Assan, also paid a heartfelt tribute to the medical student.
“There aren’t many true leaders in life and Assan was one of the rare few. News of his loss has been absolutely devastating to both the Indigenous medical Community and the Indigenous eye health Community: he touched so many peoples’ lives for the better.
“As an aspiring ophthalmologist, he came to know many in the eye health world, and I had the deep privilege of both calling him a friend and mentoring him on his journey towards specialty training. It is a loss to us all that his journey was cut short. The glow of his presence always lit up the room and he was a guiding light to all who knew him.
“I still can’t believe he is gone and will forever miss his kindness, dedication to Community and infectious smile. I hope you are resting in peace my brother and look forward to seeing you again one day. Your memory will never be lost.”
Brodie Seymour, AIDA Student Director, shared the following statement:
“It is almost impossible to put into words the impact this loss will have on our Community. To see such an aspiring young Indigenous doctor taken from us is truly heartbreaking. As Indigenous medical students, we carry not only our own dreams but also the hopes of our families and Communities; we feel immense pride in representing our mob.
My heart goes out to their loved ones and to all who are grieving.
“We must respect the family’s wishes as they mourn. During Sorry Business we need to lean on one another; mob supporting mob. Do not be shamed to reach out for support. You are not alone, and your grieving matters.”
Assan’s passing will touch many people, and this will be a time of much sadness, grief and mourning for many. Members can access support through 13YARN, WellMob, Drs4Drs, Doctors Health Alliance, Beyond Blue, Lifeline and Blackdog Institute. JCU students can access free and confidential professional counselling through the JCU Counselling Services as well as collegiate support through local clinical schools.
Consider seeking professional help if emotional experiences are overwhelming, severe, or persistent. Give a thought to your peers and colleagues and if you notice that they are struggling, and please encourage them to get help.
ENDS