Tom Welch, A Life Lived - 1942-2008

There once was a man we called “Charlie” to our three Data Model angels here at work. His real name was Tom Welch.

I received this sad news this morning at work after having seen him Friday at the Civic Hospital knowing it would probably be the last time seeing this very special man, much admired co-worker, husband, father, grandfather.

“After a valiant 7 month and 1 day struggle in hospital to hold on to
his precious life with all those who loved him in this world, Dad
succumbed peacefully to carrying on with his journey onward and
upward at 8:45 this morning, Saturday August 23, 2008.

His heart was huge enough to encompass even those he did not
personally know. He will be dearly missed.

The memorial will be held in celebration of his life this Wednesday
August 27th 2008 at 10:00AM. St. Michael & All Angels Anglican
Church, 2112 Belair Drive, Ottawa Ontario, K2C 0W9.

Everyone is welcome,

With all the love that he gave instilled in me,

Maureen”

Tom was a man who knew so much – about his work, love, and life. He was a recipient of a liver transplant 10 years ago and every year would teach us at work about his “Life Day’ the day the transplant gave him life…and shared a big cake in celebration. He always celebrated that day more then his actual birthday. He taught us how important it is to sign and have an extra copy of your donor card. He got 10 extra years due to someone’s generosity in that regard.

He leaves behind a very loving family who I have had the privilege of meeting a few times.

Everyone here at work will truly miss this gifted, patient man, and great mind.

Here’s to you Tom…I hope you have found 3 new “angels” to show you around your special new place.

What I learned in PEI and at the PEI Conservatory

I found a new love. That is the Gentle Island of PEI. The rolling hills, the foggy shoreline, the seaweed, the endless walks on the beaches, the friendly people, the seafood. The Theatre. How does one describe the slower pace, the relaxation and the feeling of being in another country or different world with some aspects of home? I can’t. All I CAN say is I loved it and will be back very soon to that lovely island.

What PEI did teach me is try and be more relaxed. Let things roll off me. Don’t fret or sweat the small stuff. And I discovered I don’t mind “island time” at all…..

As for my Acting Renewal at the PEI Conservatory – I meet some wonderful artists who are very giving and nurturing. They taught me a few things – I knew but now seem older or more settled to let it sink in. I know I NEED Yoga, and want to continue Voice work if I can.

A few key things I took away:…which I already knew…but always good to re-affirm:

“You are enough” "What you need, you already have”

- Connect
- Act/Action
- Tactics/Strategies
- Given Circumstances
- Future Circumstances

Now to apply it!!