January 18, 2004

Remembering Madeleine

I have just discovered the wonderful photo album of Madeleine's service on January 10th. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend it. I am grateful to all whose entries I have just read and whose pictures I just poured through: I have learned more of Madeleine's earlier years and found the overlap with my own experiences with her.
I had given the following entry to Linda Hopkins to bring to the service. I post it here to contribute a bit more about Madeleine, the clinician and friend.

In 1998, Madeleine began working as an intern in the Haverford College Counseling and Psychological Services, which is when and how I got to meet Madeleine. Madeleine's gift for working with students was immediately apparent. She was able to engage the most difficult and troubled students.

As Madeleine went on to other internships and practica, we stayed in touch. We shared intellectual interests regarding Winnicott and the British Object Relations theorists; we talked about our "mums." Upon learning that my mother was dying this past spring, Madeleine wrote me,
"My guess is that the ache of impending loss is greater because you've rediscovered your mother over these past few years and found your tenderness for her. Then again, had you not connected with her, the loss would have been even more profound and the despair greater, even if the sadness was less."

Perceptive, respectful, and brilliant, Madeleine was a uniquely talented therapist whose opportunities to give to the field beyond her patients were just opening up. Wise and comforting, Madeleine was a warm and loving friend. I miss her. Be well, lovey!

Posted by maddyfriends at January 18, 2004 03:38 PM