At the March 13 Gila County Board of Supervisors meeting, the board recognized Dr. Michael Durham for providing medical examiner services and serving as the medical director for Gila County Public Health Department for 36 years.

Paula Horn, deputy director of the Gila County Health Department, shared highlights of Durham’s career with the board. The following is an excerpt of Horn’s presentation:

“I’d like to thank you for allowing the health department the opportunity to acknowledge Dr. Durham for the 36 years of service he has provided to Gila County,” she said. “Dr. Durham began working with the Health Department 36 years ago. Let’s put that into perspective.”

In 1982:

• Postage stamps were 20 cents each;

• Loaf of bread was 50 cents;

• The number one film was E.T.;

• Tylenol capsules laced with potassium cyanide killed seven in Chicago; and ,

• Doctor’s performed the first implant of a permanent artificial heart.

“Of course, it was a very different place back then, although I’m not entirely sure I believe all of his stories about quite how hard life was in those days,” Horn continued. “I think that might be just another example of the sense of humor that has made him such a great colleague to work with.

“‘Legacy’ is an over-worked word these days, but when it comes to what Dr. Durham has provided during his time here, this is one of those occasions when it is justified.”

Durham began as Gila County Medical Director for the health department and the services he provided for the residents consisted of:

• Well Baby Clinics for uninsured and underinsured babies to provide evaluation of baby development, immunizations and routine checkups;

• Medical consulting and guidance on testing, diagnosis, and treatment of various diseases; and,

• He is also known for going above and beyond to see patients who had no insurance.

He also served as the Deputy Medical examiner for 30 years providing:

• Investigative support by responding to homicide scenes; and,

• Completing all paperwork to ensure timely processing of death certificates.

“One thing that wasn’t in the contract but you could always count on was a kind word, warm smile and a catchy phrase.

“Retirement is a time to look back with admiration and a time to look forward with anticipation. We look back with gratitude for the many services Dr. Durham provided to our communities. We look forward to hearing his stories of hunting, fishing and many adventures of retirement.

“We wish Dr. Durham all the very best for happy retirement,” Horn concluded.

Pictured: The Board of Supervisors recognized the efforts of Dr. Michael Durham at the March 13 board meeting. Durham is retiring after 36 years’ service to the county.

Photo by Autumn Giles