Wednesday, January 22, 2025
I am deeply saddened to hear of Mimi's passing. She was a dear friend, colleague, mentor, advocate and inspiration. Her obituary is typical of Mimi: grossly understated, modest, and humble. She was, in fact, more than a nurse for 53 years - She was a nurse for over 66 years and 3 years of training at Jeff, as you don't retire from a calling - it is who you are - not what you do! Mimi was a leader, pioneer, icon, and consummate educator in perioperative nursing. She was featured on the cover of journals and many articles were written about her leadership of the operating rooms at Jeff and her impact on nursing. She worked beside the best! Dr Gibbons who invented the heart-lung bypass machine - was a private scrub and cherished colleague to many of the best and brightest surgeons Jefferson has celebrated over the years. Nurses are often seen in the margins, but their magic, brilliance, and service to patients, families, and communities make all the difference in individual healing and collective wholeness. Think of COVID and how we grew to recognize the power of nurses, as they showed up daily while others stayed away. They were the front line and have been all along. Mimi gave with a selfless heart. She was intelligent, soft-spoken, and poignant when she had a point to make. Her missions work in North Philadelphia after working grueling schedules in the hospital, were some of her proudest activities. Helping those in need. She cared for her dear mother (Betty) and nurtured her soul and well-being well into old age. She was my friend, a nurse, but so much more and I am heartbroken by her loss and so grateful for her presence and the loving memories she leaves me with. My condolences to the family, but please know your Aunt was much more than a nurse! She was a superhero in my eyes and so many others. Love you Mim! Jim
