A Holiday Message from the President of SDPA

Laura Bush, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

As we approach the holidays, life seems to get a little more hectic. It is the time of year when our clinics are busy; there are many festivities and demands, and the days seem too short to get it all done. My message to our colleagues is simple - stop to enjoy the people, events, and festivities. Most of all, cherish time spent with your family, for time is something you will never get back. Make the most of it because it's those memory-making moments that will be remembered.

The work we do as caregivers is important, and it's equally important that we take care of ourselves, especially during this stressful time of year. This holiday season, I urge you all to prioritize your well-being. Unplug from the daily demands of life and enjoy some holiday traditions. My kids always loved having my homemade hot cocoa while decorating the tree. Pause and take time for yourself and your loved ones. This is a critical time for rest and rejuvenation. Time off from work over the holidays can boost your mental and physical health; it is a chance to recharge and refresh yourself and return to work with renewed energy and creativity.

As we reflect on the achievements of the past year, we can take pride in two successful conferences, eleven new distance education offerings, six online courses including Cosmetics, Zebras, and Dermoscopy, initiating an update of the Diplomate program, and showcasing our inaugural professional development workshop during the Nashville conference. The leadership team created leadership learning opportunities and broadened our leadership pipeline through the addition of many wonderful new volunteers. In addition, a DEI task force was formed and is ready to create initiatives to support our SDPA community. We also shared a public service initiative with our Nurse Practitioner colleagues on World Heart Day. But, perhaps our most notable accomplishment this year is the hallmark publishing agreement with Wolters Kluwer. We are blessed by our many volunteers at SDPA that work to support Dermatology PAs across the nation. Thank you for your time. If you want to be a volunteer, please reach out to us, and we will find a committee for your strengths and talents.

Your organization has been busy planning many exciting new programs and opportunities for learning in the coming year. Please feel free to contribute your thoughts, talents, and ideas, as we value you and your input in achieving our collective success.

As we look forward to the new year, let's remember the importance of our work as Dermatology PAs and the difference we make in our patients' lives every day. We at the SDPA are here to support you and your professional aspirations. Here's to a stress-free, restful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Stay healthy and take care,

Laura Bush, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA