Hundreds gathered at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Dallas this morning at 10am to mourn the loss of a hero of Scoliosis Surgery, teaching, and research: Dr Alexis Paul Shelokov, June 19, 1954- August 3, 2009.
The air was quiet and the seats were all full. Some stood on the outer regions of the room, with no more seats left to fill. The music played and we listened to stories of his life, his accomplishments, and the amazing heart of a man that to us, was a hero.
From the pulpit, the preacher encouraged the group:
"His legacy continues on through the physicians that he has trained and taught. He gave many their life back so that they could live a normal life, and contribute their gifts to the world.
A word to Nicholas and Laura. Alexis loved you very much...
Every time you take a breath, it is a reminder that your life is a gift from God...
What happens when you die? The medical teams will say that you 'expire'... the breath of God has been breathed into you...each breath is a reminder of that gift.
A poet once said, Earth is the beginning, Death is the destination and Life is the Journey to eternal life. This eternal life is through Jesus Christ. We know that Alexis is in heaven with God.
What we have is for the moment. Life is short and must be given back. So, we give Alexis back to God. A famous songwriter once said, "Some of us live, Some of us die, some day God will tell us why.""
Today we mourn the loss of a hero in scoliosis surgery. Those of us that have been given back our life because of what Dr Shelokov's gifted hands were able to do in the surgical suite will never forget the man that changed our lives forever.
In loving memory, Dr Alexis Shelokov June 19, 1954-August 3, 2009. Rest in eternal peace.

