The city of Baltimore made sure the spirit of Dr. Sebastian Russo lives for another generation, so that how Russo practiced medicine -- with compassion, long office hours and frequent house
calls -- might not be remembered as something quaint and gone, but seen as
something present, real and possible. Last year, the city named an award after Russo, a selfless general practitioner who treated the poor and uninsured out of his storefront office in Northeast
Baltimore.

Here's the city's official description:

"The Dr. Sebastian Russo Memorial Award was created in 2007 by the Baltimore City Health Department to recognize a healthcare provider who has provided dedicated and compassionate service to low-income individuals and families.  The award honors Dr. Sebastian Russo, a Baltimore City family physician known for his tireless and devoted service to his patients.  Before his tragic death in 1980, Dr. Russo was embraced by his community, who recognized the value of a physician who made house calls, learned multiple languages to communicate more effectively with patients, and charged only when patients were able to pay."

This year's recipient: Michelle Sheldon-Rubio, a nurse with more than 28 years of experience, and education coordinator of the Joslin Diabetes Center at University of Maryland Medicine."

In her job, Sheldon-Rubio "facilitates the Joslin Circle Diabetes Group; develops and implements diabetes education programs; and coordinates clinical research projects.  In addition to her work at Joslin, Michelle volunteers every Wednesday at Our Daily Bread where she plans and cooks the meals.

"Ms. Sheldon-Rubio’s commitment to serving her community has been recognized by her patients and colleagues. As Dr. Tom Donner, Medical Director of the University of Maryland Joslin Center wrote in his nomination letter, 'Michelle is someone who has been a longstanding and remarkably effective patient advocate, well deserving of the Dr. Sebastian Russo Memorial Award.'

“'Last year, the Health Department created this award to honor local health care providers who go above and beyond to serve their patients and the citizens of Baltimore,' said Dr. Sharfstein. 'From visiting patients when they are hospitalized, providing cards, gifts and emotional support when they’re most in need, Ms. Sheldon-Rubio is an amazing example of a true public servant.'”

The Dr. Sebastian Russo Memorial Award selection process is overseen by a committee at the Baltimore City Health Department.