COORDINATOR'S Farewell NOTES
This note is to “officially” let each of you-- my dear friends in the CT Parkinson community (and beyond)--know that I will be leaving the CT APDA Information and Referral Center on July 30, 2011. I am embarking on a new venture within the School of Nursing at Quinnipiac University. As many of you are aware, QU is a prospering educational institution. The university’s nursing program is highly regarded for excellence in preparing graduates who are capable of providing compassionate, holistic care. I am very fortunate to be joining QU during this growth phase particularly because (as most of you know) education is one of my passions. As I make this transition, it is a true pleasure (although bittersweet) to recall my 23 years of work with each of you. I certainly realize what a gift it has been on many levels—both professionally and personally. In October 1988, Gladys Tiedemann, volunteer President extraordinaire from our APDA Chapter, provided the major impetus to secure a nurse coordinator who would spearhead efforts to provide outreach to CT’s PD population. I have served in this capacity since that time with much joy and immense satisfaction. Because of the unflinching dedication of Gladys and a cadre of statewide volunteers, the APDA national network and Saint Raphael’s ongoing support and guidance, and--without a doubt--the valuable relationships with each of you, I feel the Parkinson program has been able to flourish into a vital resource here in CT and into the region. I (and my wonderful husband and family who have been part of this journey) thank you for this! My many experiences with you and all members of the CT Parkinson “family” will certainly be remembered with fondness. It is a testimony to each of you that I am able to take these memories with me and use them as a springboard while moving on to this new career opportunity. Whether you are a patient, family member, or a provider of services, I promise I will strive to continually share with my nursing students your lessons of living “well” with PD and / or your caring “with compassion.” After all, these students will be our next generation of health care professionals (and perhaps future PD nurses)! I offer best wishes to you as you continue with the blessed mission of embracing Parkinson’s. Be assured that all of you will forever hold a very dear place in my heart. When I think of our times together, I will always smile. And remember, continue to help “ease the burden and find the cure” for Parkinson’s by supporting each other and supporting APDA. Much gratitude for letting me be a part of your lives. Until we meet again… At this time, the APDA Center at Saint Raphael’s is closed. |
By Donna Diaz, R.N., M.S.,
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