We bid a bittersweet farewell to Gilda’s Program Manager Autumn, whose last day is April 23rd. Autumn has been a source of great humor, support, knowledge, and compassion during her decade at Gilda’s Club. We know that she will continue to have a positive impact on the community as she enters her next chapter. Autumn wrote about her time at Gilda’s Club—If you’d like to share a favorite memory of Autumn, please comment below!
By Autumn Kath
I came to Gilda’s Club in 2016 as an intern working towards my Masters in Social Work. From the very beginning I had immense feelings of gratitude. Gratitude for being placed at such an impactful organization, gratitude for the flexibility to work and start a family, gratitude for the Gilda’s members who shared their stories with me, and gratitude for the ability to do this work of holding and supporting your cancer experiences.
It has been an honor to watch Gilda’s Club Wisconsin change in so many ways over the years; and being part of those changes. We created new programs to support everyone in the state, we began offering virtual programming, and we changed our name! It has been an honor to watch myself change over these 10 years; you have watched me have kids, take on new roles, and become a better clinician.
These changes never end. It is time for me to move on from Gilda’s Club. I have loved every moment of working with our members. From sitting in support groups with you; listening to your stories and making connections with other members. Working individually with many of you; supporting and finding joy in hard moments. Going on endless walks and having chats. Laughing together at the absurd experiences. Eating meals together. Meeting your families. Seeing your art that represents you so well. The hugs and the times we’ve cried together.
I am so lucky to have been part of this community. I will continue to show up at Gilda’s events. I will always be your biggest fan! The connections I have made here are priceless and life changing. Thank you.
We will miss your positive energy, Autumn. I wish you well in your new endeavors.
Autumn, I will be forever grateful to you for your welcome and support of my husband, Ben, and me. I wish you a brilliant and beautiful future.