Susan Prnjak became our Human Resources Director in 2008 after having served on our HR team for more than five years. She was known for her love of dogs, her faith in our mission, her sometimes raucous sense of humor and her affection for the people on our team.
A mountain biking accident on November 12, 2011, left her in a coma. Although she received quality care and was surrounded by her friends, family and co-workers, she never recovered. Last night at 8:22 p.m., Susan passed away.
While we will grieve her death and the loss of her friendship, enthusiasm, wisdom and laughter, we are thankful that she is now at peace. Guide Dogs for the Blind is richer for Susan's having shared a part of her life with us. Her laugh, compassion, honesty, and love for a certain black Lab named Moose will always be with us.
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, January 3 will forever be remembered as Susan Prnjak Day.
It is hard to believe that someone who was so full of life could have it all taken from her in an instant. I'm very glad she is not suffering and her spirit has been set free -- carried on the wings of our thoughts and prayers. See you by the candles at the pond.-- Joanne
ReplyDeleteI will always remember Susan the most as my personal cheerleader - she wrote me a message every single day that I was on the AIDS ride, with funny and inspiring notes that always made me smile and convinced me to keep going. Susan was so supportive personally and professionally and she is already missed.
ReplyDeleteWhen you come to the edge of all the light you have, and must take a step into the darkness of the unknown, believe that one of two things will happen. Either there will be something solid for you to stand on or you will be taught how to fly.
-Patrick Overton
Susan coached me both professionally and personally. She was always generous with her time and resources and gave them freely. She could always get a smile from,too,and usually a laugh. Susan was a lovely combination of confidence, generosity and smarts. I miss her.
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