2014 brings some big changes for me, personally. I am retiring at the end of January.
12 years ago I found my dream job as clinical coordinator of the U.T. Cleft and Craniofacial Team and I have been privileged to work with this talented group of specialists ever since.
It seems like yesterday when I traveled from New Jersey to be interviewed by the team neurosurgeon that had -the previous week- been part of the TV documentary, “The Real E.R.” filmed at Memorial Hermann Hospital. Then I met Dr. Jaime Gateno, the oral & maxillofacial surgeon, who created the beautiful profiles for children with craniofacial abnormalities. I was toured through Dr. James Xia’s research lab and wore 3D glasses to see the computerized simulation used in planning surgeries. But I had yet to meet the plastic surgeon, Dr. John Teichgraeber, who directed the team. Dr. T’s national reputation was the reason I was interested in the team. I knew of his surgical skills and read his research publications and even saw him interviewed on the news but had yet to meet my future boss. It took one more trip to Houston to meet the man behind the reputation before the job was mine.
These 12 years have zipped by. I can tell how much time has passed when I look at how our patients and their parents have changed. The team has also continued to grow with new skills, new research and new faces. One of those new faces is Irene Leanne Doringo who has joined us as the new clinical coordinator. If you have not met Leanne yet, you will be meeting her on your next visit.
Although, I am sad to be leaving the team, I know that I am leaving you all in good hands. I am excited about having the time to travel and to spend more time with my husband and family.
My life has been richer because of you. Thank you!