The Martha's Vineyard Times

Thanks to everyone

January 11, 2012

To the Editor:

This is just a note to thank everyone for my "Change of Employment Status," aka, retirement party last Thursday at the Ocean View. I was totally surprised and nearly speechless because you all did such a great job keeping the party a secret. Further investigation reveals that two of my co-workers, Betsy VanLandingham and Lori Perry, my wife Denise, my sons Brian and Peter, and my daughter-in-law Beth, were the instigators. They knew I would respectfully decline such an event, if given the option, and they got me to go out to dinner under the guise of celebrating Pete and Beth's house closing.

After I got over the shock of the surprise, I really enjoyed the evening. It was especially nice to see Dr. David Babin and Dr. Thomas Gregg, the only two doctors that I worked with when I started at the hospital in 1974 that are still alive. It was nice to have a chance to catch up on old times we had in my operating room days. As for the rest of the folks, my co-workers, friends, and family, you all have been a big part of my life over the last 37 years, and I will never forget the good times and the hard times we have shared.

I had a good run, and if I had to do it all over again I wouldn't change a thing. The fruits of my labor never put me in that one percent financial category you've heard so much about lately, but I have always felt like I was a millionaire for having known and worked with all of you. Denise and I will use your generous gift for a future Patriots, Celtics, or Red Sox game. Thanks again, you folks are the best.

Rick Lambos

Edgartown