Dear Friends of Mercy,

It is with mixed emotions andafter deep consideration that I announce my retirement as president of Mercy Foundation. As many of you already know, it has been a very difficult decision – one which I do not take lightly. When I assumed the position nine years ago, I had only an inkling of how you, my friends and supporters, and the work being donethrough Mercy Hospital, would impact me…but the indelible mark it hasmade on my heart following nearly a decade of serviceat your sides has left me more enriched and enlightened than I could have everimagined.

Mercy Hospital turns 60 this December and I take greatpride in knowing that our efforts have helped make its mission flourish into another century. By understanding the needs of the hospital and overseeing pivotal fundraising, we have helped facilitate a number of significant projects, including the expansion and renovation of the hospital’s Emergency Department, the M.B. Fernandez Family Emergency Pavilion, as well as the implementation of robotic surgery, digital mammography and other capital equipment and clinical support initiatives. We have additionally generated key funds for the St. John Bosco Clinic.  This initiative, one which I hold dear, has helped ensure that thousands of underprivileged adults and children in South Florida receive free medical care – treatment that might otherwise be unaffordable.  I am grateful to members of our Founders Society who have served as the backbone of these fundraising efforts. Your contributions and fervor for the cause have turned dreams into realities.

I would also like to offer a special thank you to our Ambassadors and Angels. Your tireless work, from fundraising to hosting food and toy drives for people in need, has heightened the visibility of Mercy and helped further important advances within the surrounding community.

The journey we have made together has been wonderfully fulfilling for me -- not only inmy professional career, but inmy life as a whole. While I move forward now to spend more time with my family -- my grandchildren in particular -- I am reminded of your service and sacrifice, your dedication to our cause and to the good of the greater community, both within South Florida and beyond our borders. It has been inspiring to me and I consider it an honor to have served such an incredible organization.

But this is not goodbye, it is"good wishes for a new and prosperous year." I anticipate great things ahead for Mercy Foundation, and I am happy to say I have been asked to stay on in a consulting role as the transition to new leadership is made. I look forward to seeing continued growth and will always remain a faithful member of Mercy Foundation.

My verybest,