It was a big day for her. The end to all of her apprehensions about how Romano could screw her over. She had confirmed the agenda of their board meeting with Julie who had first been Anspaugh's secretary, Robert's secretary, and then Anspaugh's again as he reclaimed his position as Chief of Staff. Kerry had spent a considerable amount of time over the last few weeks confirming that her new center proposal would be accepted. The heads of both radiology and records gave their approval to her immediately and while X-ray and extended convalesce care took some time to persuade she was confident that she had their support as well. But it was all just words until they called to vote today in she checked her watch shit! It's started already. She quickened her pace to the elevator.
The ride allowed her to think over her day. Kerry was relieved to have such a supportive staff. She had asked John Carter to fill in for her, in case she was a few minutes late. It had been a strange day in the ER. Michael, who had usually been so capable, today seemed completely inept today. He had the most basic questions for her with each and every patient.
She opened the door quietly and scurried to the open seat next to John.
"Thank you Dr. Weaver for gracing us with your late but necessary presence." Anspaugh delivered swiftly.
"I'm so sorry, I"
"Save it. Were all busy people, let's just move on. Request for three more OB nurses," he turned to face the dark haired woman sitting across from John. "Sorry Dr. De Vous, we just don't have the money this quarter."
"I understand." She muttered.
Kerry took that as a final opportunity, "Rebecca, the ER could probably spare 80 hours a week in support staff." She tossed John Carter a stern look as he scoffed audibly.
"That would be great, Kerry. I appreciate it." Rebecca smiled broadly.
"Go ahead, throw her a bone." A barely audible voice whispered from behind the closed door in the back of the room.
"Excellent. Thank you Dr. Weaver." Anspaugh concluded and turned the page over on the notes he had in front of him.
"Now, as for the repairs in the OR. Dr. Corday, have you spoken to the contractor? The repairs were to be done two weeks ago. Now, I can appreciate the work involved, but non-elective surgeries can only put off for so long."
"Yes. Of course. It's cutting into all of our schedules Donald. They have assured me that they will be cleared out and all room will be cleared within the week."
"I certainly hope so." Anspaugh crossed some of his notes; presumably noting that the OR repairs question had been covered.
"Agreed." Elizabeth stated and then looked down to her lap. She knew what was next on the agenda and she could hardly contain her eagerness.
"Now about the Cancer wing. With Northwestern's latest expansions on their Cancer treatment center, we have an open department here at Cook County. Dr. Weaver has proposed a clinic for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Health Care. Your proposal states that over 85% of costs will be coming from the estate of former Dr. Steele. Is that still the case?"
"Yes Donald. While Dr. Steele was with us for a very short period of time, I have assurance from his wife and their lawyer that he would very much be interested in sponsoring our facility."
"Well I see need no reason to deny these accommodations. Is there anyone else here who is opposed? Dr. Shepherd?"
"Not at all Donald. I think there is a need, and if Kerry is willing to head the renovations, it seems like a worthwhile addition." There were committal nods from other around the table.
"Well actually, you bring up an interesting point." Anspaugh began, "Dr. Weaver, I would like to speak to you privately after this meeting, but as for who will be organizing this department, I did have a proposal."
"But Donald. I" Kerry interjected.
"Please Dr. Weaver, let me finish. A Dr. Susan" he looked down to his notes to refresh him memory.
"Lewis." John and Elizabeth finished in unison.
Kerry looked back and forth to them confused.
"Yes, Dr. Lewis from the ER has volunteered to head this new department. And while salary negotiations are confidential, her request is minimal considering the amount of additional duties her new position will bring."
Kerry couldn't hold her tongue any longer. "Donald. Dr. Anspaugh. I think this is a huge mistake Susan had neither the strength or the experience to handle"
"That is true, Dr. Weaver, but I have been assured that she will be given all the guidance necessary from a former member of this staff. Julie." He turned his attention to his secretary who was quietly taking minutes in the back of the room near the far door. "Could you please have Dr Lewis and her mentor, join us."
She stood and opened the door. "They are ready for the two of you to join us now."
"Thank you, Julie." Susan answered as she and Dr. Romano entered the boardroom.