Dear Editor,
When a person is so integral to an accomplishment, you have to make sure they receive the recognition.
I wish I could transcend my gratitude beyond this letter. A current colleague of mine deserves recognition and a huge thank you. Though she is a colleague now, Caitlin Clarke started out as a mentor. Caitlin is a pharmacist in Barrhead who graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. She later gained her Doctor of Pharmacy (or PharmD) and her Additional Prescribing Authority (APA) as well. Caitlin has been the supporter, adviser, and pharmacist that I needed to complete my schooling and then pass my pharmacist licensing exams. She went above and beyond as a healthcare professional for me and she continues to provide excellent care to every patient she in her circle of care. She is a great asset for our community and for our healthcare system.
Caitlin has deserved recognition far before this point in time. She began helping me with my application to pharmacy school in 2013 and has been a strong support in my life ever since. She has used her vast knowledge of pharmaceuticals, drug interactions and body systems to tutor me all through my pharmacy degree. Hours of her time were devoted to teaching me valuable lessons on the healthcare system and pharmacy. Out of her good virtue, she would often drive to my apartment, sometimes in Edmonton, to provide me these tutoring sessions. I am exceedingly fortunate to have had her guidance these past six years.
For patients in the community, she always provides the highest level of care and ensures that patients are taken care of by other professionals as well. She also uses her knowledge to educate patients on the safest and most effective treatment options for the disease or symptom they are trying to treat. Before I had a regular physician, Caitlin provided me with treatment I needed to get me through the most demanding part of school. She also gave me valuable advice on how to deal with stress when my life was overwhelming. I have been fortunate to see her provide excellent care for patients and work in collaboration with other healthcare practitioners, like physicians, to develop plans for patients’ health.
Her contributions to this community and my learning should not go unsung. Her devotion, altruism, and knowledge have changed not only my life for the better!
Sean Starman
Barrhead
