This blog is about inspiration and the many forms in which it presents itself. We lost an important colleague from the pharmacy world last week. She inspired many of her students as well as her peers.
She had been a fixture in the south end for well over 20 years and well-known in the community. Her proximity to the university meant that pharmacy students were never in short supply and she pushed them to be strong contributors to the profession. Her passion for teaching extended to the more recent influx of international pharmacists. She was patient and nurturing, allowing them to adapt their styles and lessons from their home countries. The college never hesitated to lean on her to evaluate new entrants and approve their structured time service.
I guess I should explain the title. Before you get the idea that this will devolve into a religious ramble, a few things I should point out as background. Firstly, I was raised Roman Catholic but have not been practicing (and I use the term loosely) for the past 20 years. I may debate and challenge many things about the faith chosen for me, but one thing I DO believe in is the human spirit. Everyone has a driving force that ultimately steers them in the life path they choose. For some, it may be material things. For others, power and control. When someone is known for helping others, it’s never because they are forced to. I had the pleasure of working alongside this individual since 2006 though her name was well-known to me when I started out as a student in 1998. I had lost contact over the past year so when the news hit, memories (as they have a habit of doing) come flooding back. Our last conversation was brief and unremarkable; It was October 2012, and as I recall we both just rehashed our summer vacations before being interrupted by the conference proceedings. So today I found myself looking up and getting lost in thought for a few minutes. If her spirit was floating about somewhere in the ether, I hope she heard my well-wishes.
Karen, may you rest in peace.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, employer or affiliation.
PharmAspire 
That was incredibly well worded. I have known Karen for twenty years, albeit only peripherally. We would only talk about twice yearly. Yet, I was profoundly affected by the sad news. I asked my sister why I was moved to tears when I was told of her passing. She said that maybe I felt the world’s loss.
Beautiful words for such a lovely person! We surely have lost a very valuable individual but as they say, “God keeps the dearest ones closest to Him” May everyone who had ever had the opportunity to meet her, carry her legacy forward and keep her always in our hearts 🙂
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