Ring in the New... But Remember the Old
Naomi Hoffenberg, Program Coordinator for Epilepsy York Region
Once again, a new year approaches us as we plan to discard our old, crumpled calendars. I must admit that I get excited when a brand new year starts – the promise of fresh ideas, new faces… and THAT plan to lose holiday weight!
Maybe we shouldn't be so quick to rid ourselves of those old coffee-stained calendars and schedule books, though. It provides a sense of nostalgia, and a reminder of what we did to serve our community in the last year. With all my scribbles, I like to think of my calendar as a kind of scrapbook of memories.
I arrived at Epilepsy York Region in late March of 2003 as the Program Coordinator. Having settled comfortably into the New Year, the staff, students and volunteers at the office were busily planning events and recuperating from the March Awareness project. A tiny organization when compared to the vast population that occupies York Region, EYR's philosophy is one that creates a family-like environment for its clients. For instance, the "Have a ride, Share a ride" program encourages members with mobility issues to interact with other members who can give them transportation to and from events. For new members who have anxieties about their recent diagnosis, our support groups serve as a chance for experienced members to share their stories and their wisdom. In our meetings, every member learns that they have something to offer, and they recognize how valuable their presence is to us and to each other.
Planning for our Annual General Meeting, Glad Days, Cantonese Conference, fundraiser Car Rally and 50s & 60s Dance has kept us on our toes the last six months. As the months flew by, we offered regular employment sessions and educational presentations, groups for adults living with epilepsy, youths living with epilepsy, parents of children with epilepsy, and our Newmarket/York North information nights.
Now as we are approaching the end of the year, our last event for 2003 seems like a pretty good wrap-up. Our Holiday Party will give us a chance to have fun, socialize, and enjoy the company of our members, volunteers and staff.
My calendar for the New Year is still neat and clean… Sure, the deadlines and special events are written down, but I still have to personalize it with mug rings and doodles – which will come in due time, no doubt. I look forward to the challenge.
Cheers to a wonderful new year!
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