One Big Step

I started at the Gurwin Nursing and Rehab Center on August 31, 1999 as a recreation therapist intern under the supervision of one of the most amazing, inspiring, well known therapists in the field, Karen Nash. At the close of my internship, I was offered a full time job as a recreation therapist. I continued working for Gurwin full time and then part time for a while when I returned to work after the twins were born. Over the next several years, I was encouraged to apply for the supervisor positions as they became vacant on more than one occasion. I made a few excuses not to go for it; the extra hours, the kids, I wasn't ready; I know when it really came down to it I was just not confident in myself. Finally, in August 2013, I accepted the offer as the Supervisor of the Therapeutic Recreation Department.  Not only was it a good decision, it helped build my confidence and enhance my leadership skills.
It was approximately October of 2014 when Karen called me at home on my day off and wanted me to be one of the first to know she had decided to retire. As I heard the words, my heart began to race. Not only was it difficult to here and to know my mentor over the past 15 years would be leaving, but I knew I had a huge decision to make. She had recommended me as her successor and I had to decide if it was something I wanted to go for. I was freakin' out. I was panicked. I was scared. Day in and day out as word spread, it was a constant "Oh, those are big shoes to fill." I always told myself I could never fill her shoes, only follow in her footsteps. One day I was going for it, the next backing out, I made lists. I wrote letters to myself of encouragement. How was I going to draw the line between friendships with staff and professionalism when I needed to be "the boss"?  I knew  this was my path I needed to go down. And I did.

I have to say this would not even been possible without the support and encouragement I have received from my loving husband Matt (please note, I stepped away from the computer and this line miraculously appeared).  In all seriousness, the support from my family and Karen.  Her faith in me and my abilities gives me strength and the confidence I need.

On February 2, 2015 I officially became the director of the Therapeutic Recreation at Gurwin. It's been 17 years since I walked in the doors at Gurwin.  I graduated college, became a therapist, got married, had the twins, promoted to Supervisor and now am the Director of an amazing department working at getting my Masters Degree.  I give speeches in front of the Administration, the Board, my peers, families and even Congressmen.  Who would have thought?  I wouldn't change a thing.