Well Yay!

I just received notification that I've been approved as a specialist contributor for a company as a pet writer.  I realize my ten years of experience are due to some pretty amazing people, and I'm honored.  I was accepted into a customer service position in September 2001 at Kissimmee Animal Hospital by a doctor who quite frankly intimidated me almost to the point of silence during my first months of employment.

An idealist college student, I wanted to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian because I loved animals.  Realistically, science is a struggle for me and once I was immersed into the office, the reality of what veterinarians really do overwhelmed me.  It is a responsibility that I just didn't think I could handle.  I stayed with it because I loved the animals, not the paycheck.  Our staff was a small family with an awesome extended family of clients and their humans.

Over time, I grew into the role of a Senior Customer Service Representative, and also had a chance to work as a technician assistant to expand my proficiency.  I have had the opportunity to assist with surgeries, was a direct part of the diagnosing and healing process and an integral step in the client education process.  Being able to share in the lifetime bond of a human and pet is a curious mix of rewards, frustrations, joys and tears and a responsibility that I never took lightly.  There were times I wished I would have pushed myself into pursuing a doctorate, but at the end of the day being part of a wonderful team and being trusted by clients and doctors was extremely satisfying.

As I step forward in a new direction with my knowledge I am extremely thankful that I had such a good mentor.  A man who became a good friend but also challenged me to continually to learn and grow.  "Trust but verify" has become ingrained in my mind, a process that happens with most anything I do in life.  I smile as I think of the man who always confirmed my answer without being rude and took the time to teach and explain without making me feel ignorant for asking.  It is a rare occurrence to know a man who truly enjoys his work.  Thanks, Dr. Gary Borgman, once again, for a new opportunity.