09/09/2022
This week (9-6-2022) I celebrated my 33rd year with Dr. Anita Elliott. I never had the desire to go to college. High school for me, was tough enough. I was 18 and she was 28. She had just begun her journey, having only graduated dental school 2 years prior. It was a week before my 19th birthday.
As with any teenager, my breakfast of champions almost EVERY morning was a small bag of peanut M&Ms and a Dr. Pepper. When I arrived at work on the morning of my 19th birthday (9-14-1989) on my desk was a card, a BIG bag of peanut M&Ms and a 6-pack of Dr. Pepper! Most likely, one of the best days of my life!
I remember feeling SO happy AND special, valued, respected, appreciated, important and genuinely cared about. I asked myself, why after only 1 week, before I even had a chance to prove myself, did she do this? She didn't know me personally.... yet. She observed, paid attention to the details and made a point to acknowledge my birthday and celebrate in a way she knew I would enjoy.
I believe those are qualities of a genuinely great woman, person, leader, teacher, mentor, boss, and friend. If you wonder why people stay at the same career/job for 10, 20 or even 30+ years, that is why! It is the way you make people "feel." I still LOVE what I do because she continues to make me, our team, and our patients "feel" that way each and every day.
Dentistry has allowed me the opportunity to take care of people and help patients "feel" good and confident with their smiles and overall health! Dr. Elliott has blessed me with a sense of security, the opportunity to earn a decent living, and a work schedule that was conducive to raising 4 boys, who've turned out to be really great men! I will continue to work hard, grow, and learn something new each day because I am surrounded and supported by the BEST team, doctor, and patients that a girl can ask for.
Anita and Bill, based on my environment and circumstances at age 18, with virtually NO dental experience, I believe I was destined to be a part of the journey and a member of the dental family. Through all the hard work, sacrifices, growth, the laughter and tears, the ups and downs, I appreciate you both and want to thank you for believing in and investing in "ME" so many years ago! ~ Robyn
