Tangier clinic opening bittersweet

TANGIER ISLAND, VA. (WAVY) - A shadow has fallen over plans by a tiny Virginia island on Chesapeake Bay to celebrate its new health clinic.

The physician who has provided medical care to Tangier Island for more than 30 years has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Dr. David Nichols has flown himself by helicopter or plane on his day off each week to tend to the island's 500 or so residents.

But the 62-year-old has been told he has about four months to live. Cancer of the eye has spread to his liver.

"There's really not a whole lot than can be done," Nichols told WAVY News 10 about his cancer.  "I'm just sort of resigned to the fact.  I feel very fortunate for the life I've had."

The new clinic was Nichols' dream, and he helped raise the necessary money.

Organizers moved the dedication up to make sure Nichols could attend. Nichols had earlier arranged with Riverside Health System to provide medical services for the island once he retired.

"I'm sad that I have to change my plan and not see it through to the very end but certainly the journey has been extremely rewarding and that's really what counts the most I think," said Nichols.

The clinic is set to open on August 29.