Susan Wertheim

M.P.A., R.N

A career that spanned three states, dozens of facilities, 56 years, and an immeasurable amount of love.

Susan knew she wanted to be a nurse since she was eight years old. She faced criticism and doubt from her family as to why she would take on a career like nursing when she could “just” be a mother and homemaker, like other women of the time were doing. But Susan’s heart has always had more to give. Susan’s passion and extension of self have always been remarkable. She fills every space she is in with her compassion and warmth. Her hugs are legendary and frequently requested from her family, children’s friends, and anyone wanting to be wrapped in safety and love. Her ‘mom energy’ is part of what makes her a deeply caring, skillful, sympathetic, kind and patient nurse. She has accomplished so many things in her career including a postgraduate degree, taught countless others in the healthcare industry, and positively impacted the lives of her patients and their caregivers. She understands first-hand the struggles caregivers face and how hard caring for a sick or elderly loved one is. If Susan had another 20 years to give to her career, we know it would be to continue to empower caregivers, make resources more accessible, and teach the healthcare community how to proactively recognize patient needs to better provide care to all patients.

Her children may have wanted her to retire earlier, but we know nursing is part of her soul. While she is stepping away from the daily duties of a nursing career, the passion Susan has for helping others will live in her forever. After an honorable 56-year career, this is well-deserved! Her impact is far reaching and has touched, influenced, and healed so many along her journey.

Mom, we are so proud of the nurse (and mother) you are! You have shown us how to lead with compassion, grace and humility, and that a life of service to others is of the most noble contributions one can make to the world. Your sacrifice, your heart, and commitment to learning are incomparable. You can move on knowing you have impacted so many lives, made people better and were one of the helpers.

With All of our Love and Respect, Congratulations on your Career and Retirement!

Your Children and Grandchildren

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ~Maya Angelou