Tribute to Phyllis Holt

Phyllis Holt : Tributes from the International Neuroscience Nursing Community Here are a collection of tributes I have received from neuroscience nursing colleagues and friends which I hope will demonstrate to all how she was loved and respected as a neuroscience nurse . Chris Eberhardie

‘I did not know her very well, but I know she did a great job for EANN and WFNN. Please send my my sincere condolences to her family & friends’ Met vriendelijke groeten, Winny Depaepe EANN Treasurer, Belgium ‘I was so saddened to hear of her death. I have very fond memories of Phyllis. She was extremely professional and articulate. Underneath that serious persona was a person of great fun. I know how busy we all are, and losing touch is inevitable, but somehow I thought I might have had a reunion with Phyllis, however this was not meant to be. One of her many strong points was mingling in a crowd, and making people feel welcome. Derek McNeil Former BANN representative on EANN Executive committee ‘Dear Phyllis

In rhe 1970s, I was privileged to be a part of the team, focused on establishing a European Association of Neuroscience Nurses ( the then title ).

I remember well how you guided us through the labyrinth of rules and regulations, until we reached our goal in Paris, in 1977.

At a later executive committee meeting in London, during my brief absence at lunch time, you were party to a scheme that voted me into the arduous role of secretary of the EANN.

I was overwhelmed at the time, but this opportunity evolved into a rewarding and exciting challenge.

Phyllis, I thank you.

sincerely Dianne’ Dianne Yasargil ( EANN Chairman 1987-91) ‘Very sad news indeed but in fact reading it made me smile too as it brought back memories of times with Phyllis. Meetings which started off serious but disintegrated into hysterical laughter, her dedication and strive to put Neuro nursing to the fore and also her support to me as a junior newbee in the field of Neuro and in the Society. I didn’t realise at first how senior some of you guys were when I was a mere staff nurse! Sudden is horrible for family and friends but in some ways feels not a bad way to go!’ Kate McArdle Former BANN representative EANN and WFNN

‘The message regarding the loss of our respected colleague, Phyllis Holt, was forwarded to me. I’m so sorry to hear of her death. While I did not know her well, she clearly made significant contributions to the promotion of neuroscience nursing within the European community and worldwide. Please accept my condolences on behalf of the WFNN. The WFNN would be interested in looking for ways that we might honour her. If you compose something regarding her contribution, we are willing to work with you to ensure that her memory and legacy of promoting our specialty is not forgotten.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and her family,’

Christi DeLemos, MS, ACNP-c President of the World Federation of Neuroscience Nursing. ‘I knew Phyllis for many years and, as with many people I met in the BANN, I considered her a friend and remember her with affection as well as respect for her professionalism. It would be fitting to honour her in some way.’ Lesley Pemberton Former BANN Vice President

“Phyllis was the sort of person you were glad to know. She was delightfully pragmatic and had a great wit which always helped in delivering hard messages. Whenever our paths crossed, I always came away feeling enriched. Now I know I was lucky to have known her.” Virginia Prendergast Past President AANN and WFNN