A Fitting Tribute to a Wonderful Person

Another shining light for our profession was dimmed today. Dr. Linda Buettner lost her long battle with Cancer today. She was not only a prolific researcher who contributed not only to our professions body of knowledge about dementia but also to our understanding about how Recreational Therapy can and does make a difference. Her compassion, her curiosity, her vitality, her humor were all elements that contributed to the scope of her inquisitiveness. She was an incredible researcher, teacher, mentor and friend. The legacy of her life work will continue to shape future generations of RTs working with persons with dementia. The scope of her contributions expands well beyond our field. Though she was small in stature, her presence was formidable. One can only accept that although her physical presence is no longer with us, she will always be a beacon of light who will guide us on our journey. I am deeply saddened by her passing but trust that she continues to be just a thought away. Thank you, Linda for all that you have done, and thank you for your life energy that will continue to guide us. You will be sorely missed by all whom you have touched but you will never be forgotten. Farewell friend, Sharon Sharon Nichols, CTRS/L