Issue link: https://nnumagazine.uberflip.com/i/198531
Profile:1 3/17/08 10:17 AM Page 19 absurdity of the institutions and false reforms that constantly put nursing livelihoods at risk," says Deborah Burger, RN, a member of CNA/NNOC's Council of Presidents. Through using humor, hypothetical questions, and her patented line, "I don't think so," she is easily able to break down the threats posed to nursing practice and successfully rally her students around effective strategies for dismantling what harms healthcare delivery. "When she talks to nurses about practice issues, they really respect and value what she has to say," said Malinda Markowitz, RN, a member of CNA/NNOC's Council of Presidents. "They know she's giving them information that they can use to empower themselves to put into effect the changes they want to see." MARCH 2008 President Emeritus Kay McVay agrees that Dumpel's ability to teach and connect is a force to be reckoned with. "I strongly believe that she has one of the best approaches to getting RNs to open up to the idea of activism." "She has always motivated people," added Zenei Cortez, RN, another member of CNA/NNOC's Council of Presidents. "She has a knack for really getting them geared up and ready to go." Her keen sense of humor and unique talent for putting the absurdity of the mundane into sharp relief are small components of an all-encompassing joie de vivre that embodies the Emma Goldman adage, "If I can't dance, I don't want to be part of your revolution." "She is a brilliant, focused person—but she definitely knows how to have fun," said Carder. "In the years that we have spent together on the road for CNA/NNOC, we have always laughed and danced," reflected DeMoro with a broad smile. "It is the best way to have a nurse revolution, on that we instinctively agree." CNA/NNOC members and employees feel "exceptionally privileged" to have the chance to work with and learn from Dumpel on a regular basis, says CNA/NNOC Council of Presidents member Geri Jenkins, RN. "She possesses a powerful force of ethics and compassion." The organization and the nurses' advocacy movement wish Hedy Dumpel a very special birthday, and look forward to celebrating more to come. DeMoro summed it up perfectly: "I consider the organization privileged to have and to have had the unique and incredible Hedy Dumpel." "Personally, she is my friend, my colleague, and my confidant, and the Woman Warrior that we should all hope to be. The world is a better place because of Hedy Dumpel. And even though she has many nursing and professional credentials, her ability and compassion go far beyond any credential anyone could ever place on a résumé. Providing hope to nurses and to patients with her unique blend of Rock Star and Woman Warrior, Educator, and Patient Advocate makes Hedy an unstoppable force." I W W W. C A L N U R S E S . O R G REGISTERED NURSE 19