In the summer of 1982, my husband’s career led us to Newberry, South Carolina. Little did I know that I, too, would be given such wonderful opportunities to serve Newberry County and the surrounding communities.

My response to a help wanted ad in The Newberry Observer was the genesis of my service with Newberry County Memorial Hospital. The position as secretary to the director of nursing started a journey for me that I shall never forget.

Serving in the medical setting renewed my desire to become a nurse. With support of family and friends, perseverance, handwork and determination, I received a degree and nursing license in 1990. Working in the NCMH Intensive Care Unit under a progressive nurse manager and director of nursing, I am thankful for the opportunity to have been instrumental in developing the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program and expanding Wellness Outreach.

I remember Cardiac Rehab’s early days when the first client services were offered from a small hospital room and monitored via a defibrillator. Through the shared visions of administrators and other staff members, thousands of clients have been served through Cardiac Rehab and the development of Heart Fit, exercise classes, pulmonary rehab, outpatient diabetic education and wellness outreach.

The growth of these services required the programs’ relocation three times before settling into the beautiful facility now in operation on the NCMH campus.

These services have improved the quality of life for the Newberry communities and allowed me to celebrate those life changes with clients, staff and community partners. Since retiring in the spring of 2011, I miss the daily contact with those friends, but I have many years of fond memories.

I know that the leadership and staff of NCMH Wellness Center continue to provide the best service to Newberry County.

I am thankful for the time I was privileged to serve at NCMH and for the opportunities that allow me to now serve in a different venue.

Dianne Dillingham