I found out today that my wife's dentist "passed away" recently. That's how his receptionist phrased it in a manner that sounded distressed. I was very surprised by this. And saddened. He appeared to be no older than his late 30's or early 40's, and I got the impression that his death came about not by traumatic accident or protracted terminal illness but with unforeseen suddenness from "natural" causes.
Dr. Cheng seemed to be an excellent and dedicated dentist. He and his wife owned the practice and practiced together. They have or, rather, she has two kids. My heart goes out to her. She will now be my wife's dentist.
And I am left solemnly reflecting on the fact that if a guy that young can die out of the blue, a much older guy like me can too and that I need to get my act together while I still have the chance.
