A bittersweet reveal

Earlier this week, my boss had confirmed for me that my Leave of Absence was going to be approved. Which is great to know and I have to appreciate the speed at which he was able to turn this around. Now came a even harder part... telling my team that I was leaving.

Quite a few of the individuals on my team I have worked with for many many years. Some have only had to put up with me for a couple of years, but nonetheless, we are a close group. I believe we are probably the most intact group in Rogers Cable Marketing. Not that we haven't seen our share of battles and close calls. For those on the team that were around during the @Home / Excite days, we have seen a lot unfold. Throughout it all, we have managed to keep the work interesting and challenging enough to make it worthwhile. And now I am going to be removing myself from all of that. My comfort zone.

It is an unbelievable feeling to know you can depend on the people around. I know the skills of my team better than I know my own some days. They are an incredible group that can jump into any project. E-Channels prides itself on showing up everyday to participate at any level and with the least level of politics. We just do what needs to be done.

As I told the team, barely holding back the tears again, the look of shock and surprise around the table was very evident and quite overwhelming for me. Seriously, there were gaping mouths and furrowed brows. But that all quickly gave way to support and excitement for me. The first order of business was checking the calendar to pick a date for a farewell party. Got to love this team! They have their priorities.

Over the next few days, many of them came by my desk to dig deeper into my plans and express their excitement. I think they all know this is the right thing for me to do. I will miss them all so much. They have been a family to me in so many ways. It has been a privilege to work with them over my tenure at Rogers. I have taken so much more from my experience with them than they will likely ever know. I can only hope that in the years to come we can reunite in some form or fashion.

E-Channels rules!