It is quite an achievement and cause of great excitement. It could easily have slipped by unnoticed in the frantic pace of the flu season. However, there is an overwhelming need to pause for even a few moments to reflect on the journey that has brought the practice to this point.

First, a bit of history. Stepping Stones Pediatrics of Raleigh started as an outgrowth of North Ridge Pediatrics, a fledgling venture developed by Rex Healthcare during a time when the hospital operated community based practices. The location at that time was Harps Mill Road, just next door to Ravenscroft School. The feel of the practice than was very intimate as there were only a handful of patients and all the time to visit each patient at the time of birth and to personally admit patients and care for them at Rex and Wake Medical Center. Since then the practice has grown to encompass a much larger patient base. I am now meeting new infants for the first time after discharge from the hospital.

Raleigh is now home to an outstanding pediatric hospital staffed with trained hospitalists, neonatologists and emergency room specialists. It is truly a whole new world. There is no question that the ability to focus patient care on the office setting is better for patients, however, there is a sense of loss that I and many families feel who have placed great value on a professional relationship that began at the bedside for so many of my patients at the time of birth.

While many aspects of the way care is being delivered have changed, the core values of the practice have not changed. The practice continues to strive to do the very best to nurture the health of children and families. There remains a commitment to the concept of a medical home - that is, a preferred medical environment in which your child is known, their medical records maintained and the care received reflects a commitment to excellent care.

As in all things, there is room for further development and improvement. The practice is committed to pursuing this. We welcome your feedback.

Finally, I would like to say thank you on behalf of myself and the entire staff, for the many kind gestures extended over the years to us. Thank you also for the cards expressing your appreciation and gratitude. It has made the difficult days brighter! Caring for your children is a privilege and honor. There is no greater resource, no greater gift no greater task than the safe- keeping and raising of our children.

Thank you for allowing SSP to share the journey with you!