As I prepare to retire after 34 years in the respiratory therapy department of Whidbey General Hospital, I have been reflecting on those years and the many memories I shall cherish forever. I will always remember the many families I came to know so well—one generation after another—and the many things I have learned from them.

This is not limited to the courage and strength they demonstrated in times of crisis, but also to the recovery of strength and health. I have learned so much from my patients and their loved ones … far beyond the sterile confines of the hospital.

They shared with me the special needs of a garden on Whidbey Island. With the help of my patients, I have had many years of successful gardening, and I have loved and enjoyed sharing my garden at hundreds of receptions and weddings with the thousands of floral arrangements I have made over three decades. And I will never forget the struggles to learn to make those heart-shaped stepping stones for the garden.

All of this, I learned from my patients. I love you all, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have taught and shared with me.

Jean Bintliff

Oak Harbor