Lizzy S. was a tenacious Area Manager with the East Midlands/East Anglia Operating Group. She had an incredible attitude, was a real team player and became a role model to many.
Lizzy’s mentor of five years, Janene S., Vice President/GM of the Operating Group, says Lizzy never shied away from a challenge.
In the spring of 2017 Lizzy faced her most difficult challenge yet: a cancer diagnosis.
At the time of her diagnosis, Lizzy had been with Enterprise for nearly 12 years. She made an impact on many individuals’ career journeys and was optimistic about her own future with the company.
Sadly, Lizzy passed away shortly after her diagnosis.
According to friends and peers, her death left a hole they describe as impossible to fill. But it inspired them to partner with a local nonprofit in memory of their beloved colleague.
Fundraising for a friend
At the time of her passing, Lizzy’s husband requested memorial donations be sent to Cancer Research UK – the world’s leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research.
Without hesitation, Lizzy’s colleagues began fundraising on behalf of the charity to honor Lizzy – and other loved ones – diagnosed with cancer.
Lizzy’s Operating Group raised over £10,000 through various organized efforts: online giving accounts, raffles, bake sales, golf days, a hiking challenge and a charity bike ride. Additionally, the Group hosted a blood drive last week to honor the one year anniversary of Lizzy’s passing.
The Lizzy Lounge
In addition to fundraising, Lizzy’s colleagues found another way to incorporate her memory into daily operations: naming a multi-purpose room in the administrative building “The Lizzy Lounge,” complete with a dedication and celebratory unveiling.
“Although she didn’t crave the spotlight, she often found herself the focus of attention because she was so talented,” says Janene. “The Lizzy Lounge is really the perfect way to pay tribute to our colleague who we all miss.”
Now others will be able to share experiences in collaboration, development and team bonding in the appropriately-named room, taking a lesson from someone they might not have had the pleasure of knowing, but certainly will have the pleasure of learning about.
Two very special visitors – Lizzy’s son, Joshua, and her husband, Andy – have experienced the warmth of the welcoming space. The pair was invited to a holiday celebration (complete with gifts for Joshua), allowing them to see how Lizzy’s legacy lives on in the The Lizzy Lounge.
Heartfelt recollections
Colleagues have had the opportunity to share memories, photos and stories of Lizzy through a memory box project organized by Natalie L., Talent Development Specialist, a close colleague and friend of Lizzy’s.
“Lizzy was more than a work colleague,” says Natalie. “She was my partner in crime, and I miss her every day.”
Natalie asked Lizzy’s Enterprise family to share special recollections of the dear friend. Natalie hopes Joshua – who was 3 years old when Lizzy died – can look at the box for years to come.
“I will remember Lizzy as a loyal friend and confidant who was loved by many,” says Janene fondly. “I am honored to have been her mentor. I learned so much from her during our time together.”