My friend, Richard D. Long, M.D., is someone I respect, admire and had opportunity to know very well. Dr. Long saved my life, and then he rekindled my spirit. I will never forget him. He is retiring.We shared some precious moments that continue to bring joy to my life just because they happened. I have very good memories of him as my surgeon and friend.I went to Dr. Long needing back surgery to remove a bone chip that had lodged in my spine and often prevented me from walking. It was a big piece of bone; I was scared. I …