Barbara G. Wells, Pharm.D., FCCP, FASHP
I had the opportunity to participate in the early discussions that led to the founding of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP). Like all CPNP members, I am passionate about the health and wellbeing of patients with psychiatric and neurologic disorders. CPNP is dedicated to advancing the reach and practice of psychiatric pharmacists in order to better serve their patients. The CPNP Foundation focuses on the needs of individuals living with psychiatric and neurologic disorders, their families, and healthcare professionals in general practice settings. The Foundation works to ensure that our patients receive optimal treatment, live free of stigma, and achieve their full potential.
These two organizations work in tandem, taking complementary approaches, to further evidence-based treatment of neuropsychiatric patients. All members of CPNP share a kinship, much like a family with a common purpose to care for and advocate for their patients who are, in so many cases, sorely underserved. When I attend CPNP Annual Meetings, I truly feel that I am among “my people,” and I believe the majority of attendees feel the same.
The Foundation has created a Bequest Program to offer CPNP members and others an additional mechanism to help advance the Foundation’s mission and to leave a legacy that will have an impact beyond our lifetime. Those participating in the Bequest Program become Legacy Partners within the Foundation. I was attracted to the Bequest Program because it allows me to benefit the CPNP Foundation in the future when I am no longer here, in the same way that I do now. Also, it’s comforting to know that the funds specified in my will remain under my control during my lifetime. So, in the unlikely event that my financial circumstances should take an unexpected change for the worse, I can modify my bequest if I need to do so. Leaving a bequest was a very simple process. It was just a matter of having my attorney add an amendment or codicil to my will/trust. I find it very gratifying to know that even in death, I will be supporting the CPNP Foundation, an organization with values aligned very closely with my own, as the Foundation continues to support students and residents, to improved access to care, and to expand availability of resources for patients, caregivers, and pharmacists. There is so much more that needs to be done.
In my pharmacy career, I have been so very blessed. Working in psychiatric pharmacy has provided not only fair compensation for me and my family, but also great satisfaction in making sure patients receive the best treatments and realize their potential. CPNP has also provided me opportunities to shape our profession, to lead, and to grow professionally. It is an honor for me to become a Legacy Partner by making arrangements now to support the Foundation as they improve the lives of our patients well into the future.