At many medical institutions, there is a strong emphasis on the physical processes of human disease. However, this highlights only one part of who we are. Here at SIU, we are fortunate to have a publication like SCOPE that allows members of our community to share different aspects of their experiences, and also acknowledges that our lives are made up of more than textbooks and exams. Our hope is that SCOPE will give you some insight into the thoughts and experiences that shape the people in the SIU medical community.

The response to SCOPE in the past four years has been gratifying, and this year we received an overwhelming number of entries. While the editorial board had the unenviable task of selecting only a few pieces for publication, we also had the pleasure of reviewing the work of many creative and talented individuals. We think you will enjoy reading the fourth edition of SCOPE as much as we've enjoyed putting it together.

We want to thank Phil Davis and Jacquie Scolari for the invaluable advice and guidance they have given us throughout the year, as well as SIU and Dean Getto for their support. We would also like to express our appreciation to Jean Kirchner, Jan Heine, Nancy Calvert, John Record, Kathy Dickman, and Michael Zoelzer who have given so freely of their time and energy.

SCOPE congratulates the following individuals who were awarded prizes: