As I mentioned in my previous post, my time with ACS ended this past November when I was laid off during a company-wide reorganization.  It was truly the end of a long-term relationship for me – 12 years – and I felt every type of emotion as I came to terms with the news.  It’s never easy to hear that you’re no longer needed by your company, but I can’t say that I was completely surprised.  The organization as a whole has been facing some very difficult decisions as revenue continues to decline year after year, so ultimately, this was coming one way or another.

I wanted to share my farewell note that I sent to my ACS colleagues on my last day at work.  It will give you a bit more insight into my journey with ACS.  Here you go:

Subject: How lucky am I…

Many of you don’t know this, but my time with ACS started by mere coincidence…  I was admiring someone’s adorable puppy on a street corner while living in Atlanta, we got to talking, traded info and became friends.  When I was searching for a job a short time later, my new friend said her company was hiring – and just like that, my time with the Society began. 

Back in 2004, I worked in a department that no longer exists now – but I would occasionally deal with the Corporate Communications team and I remember thinking, “I want to be part of that team one day!”  Really, it’s true! 

Fast forward through grad school in Boston and I found my way back to the American Cancer Society.  I worked for the New England Division managing communications and marketing for central and western Massachusetts, then moved to Tampa and joined the small, but mighty Florida Division communications team.  With Transformation, I had the opportunity to lead the Florida communications team myself – a talented group of communicators.  About two and half years ago, I officially became part of the GHQ Corporate Communications department when I was offered a role on the Communications Strategy Planning team.  Who knew that a simple wish in the beginning of my career would turn into a 12 year tenure with this organization!

I will miss the incredible work that we do each and every day to help cancer patients and their families.  But, the thing that makes it hardest to say goodbye is YOU!  You have all been an important part of my journey with ACS and that will remain true well past November 17.  Thank you for the many memories, your friendship, and your support.  I know it goes without saying that we will keep in touch, but just in case you don’t have it – you can always reach me atelstawarz@gmail.com and 407.415.3746. 

So, before I head out to scout street corners for another chance encounter with a precious pup, I’ll leave you with this saying from the very wise Winnie the Pooh that pretty much sums up my feelings, “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”  

With warmest regards,

Erin

I hope it was the right decision for ACS – they lost some really wonderful people with this cut.  I do know it was absolutely the best thing for me!  While I don’t have all the answers yet as to where I’ll land next professionally, I can tell you that I feel so positive and excited about the future.  There’s no doubt in my mind that there are amazing things on the horizon.

I’ll keep you posted as the next chapter unfolds…