Saturday, October 15, 2016
Judy and I started working together at Stettler Hospital in 1984. In 1985 short staffed hospitals were the norm and Judy finally had a day off to help get her kids organized for a school trip, (I think). She ended up spending most of it, sitting in hospital at my bedside, while I was in labor. That's the kind of friend she was. And I always wanted to thank each of her kids for that day. One year, after discussion with her kids, they put their Christmas off, until the New Year, when the store sales would be on. I remember thinking, I want to be able to have that kind of discussion and understanding with my children. She exuded such love for her children... Patients, families, coworkers, friends - we all benefited from Judy's fair mindedness and her sincere belief that everyone should have an advocate who would fight for them. Judy fought many a battle for the rights of others. She had a greater influence than most of her family will ever know, because of the ripple effect. Over many years I heard many a caregiver say, "I want to be a nurse like Judy". That is the highest compliment that any nurse could ever expect, and it was said of Judy, many times over. Hugs to you all, and thank you so very much for sharing her with us.
