After 23 years of dedicated service, Lynn will hang up her CdLS cape and walk off into the sunset. Lynn’s retirement is bittersweet for those of us who have had the pleasure of working with her. She can always be counted on to for her dedication to the families, her thoroughness, and helping her colleagues problem solve any issue.

Lynn came to us in 1996 – a graduate of Boston University, with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Since then, Lynn backed up her credentials by doing the hard work of learning everything she could about CdLS, and employing her natural compassion as she listened to all the stories and challenges our parents faced. She has helped connect hundreds of parents and their children with other families and caring CdLS experts.

One of our families recently shared the following story about their experience with her, “When our son was born, he was immediately rushed away because he stopped breathing. The neurologist suspected a syndrome, but wouldn’t elaborate. A diagnosis of CdLS was confirmed. My wife however was in denial. She could not accept it. I jumped on the internet and learned about the Foundation. When I mustered up the courage to call, I was immediately comforted by the voice of Lynn Audette. She not only helped to put my mind at ease, she welcomed my family into the community. My wife was still having a hard time coming to terms with the diagnosis. I came to the hospital and gave the phone to my wife saying, “I have someone I want you to talk to…” That was the game changer. That talk is what finally helped her to come to terms with our son’s syndrome. It was scary but so comforting to talk to Lynn.”

Lynn has been humbled by the number of families who have graciously opened their hearts to her and shared their successes and struggles. “One of the best aspects of this job has been to see the growth families undergo after their first phone call to the Foundation. To see them move from uncertainty to becoming experts on and such fierce advocates for their child’s needs. My life has been made richer from each and every family I have had the honor of meeting and I will always carry that with me.” Lynn fondly shares.

Deirdre Summa – longtime colleague had this to say, “Lynn exemplifies what dedication is to the Foundation and families, through her genuine love and support bestowed on the families she connects with and understands so well. I appreciate our many years working side by side, sometime sharing tears and other times sharing laughter. I wish Lynn the best as she begins a new journey and will miss her dearly!”

Please join us in wishing Lynn a fond farewell by leaving your comments and if you feel to – donations to the Foundation in her honor, by clicking here.

We wish Lynn the absolute best in the next chapter of her life.

Sincerely,

Bonnie Royster
Executive Director
CdLS Foundation

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