From the White House to The Big Apple: Colleague Lives Life to the Fullest
From the White House to The Big Apple: Colleague Lives Life to the Fullest
Larger than life-sized stuffed animals representing Obama-family pets Sunny and Bo were among the elaborate decorations at the White House reception Lewin-Manakidis attended in December.
Deidra Lewin-Manakidis, BSN, RN, PCCN, Beverly Hospital Emergency Department (ED), agreed to be her brother Gregory’s “plus one” at a party this past holiday season. The remarkable thing was, it was a party hosted by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama in the East Wing of the White House. As an 18-year member of the Secret Service, Gregory was invited to attend the Christmas holiday reception for the United States Secret Service Presidential Protective Division on Dec. 11, 2016.
Lewin-Manakidis describes the experience as “amazing,” and noted, “There was a choir singing as we arrived and the Presidential Orchestra played throughout the event.” She was also awed by the exquisite décor. “The greatest thing was that everyone got to meet the President and the First Lady,” she said. “You usually see the President announced when he comes into a room. At this event, we were announced to President and Mrs. Obama.”
Socializing with the Obamas was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but Lewin-Manakidis makes it a point every day to expand her horizons, set and pursue goals, and live life to the fullest. She completed her associate’s degree in nursing in 2008, after which she simultaneously worked as a full-time nurse, pursued her bachelor’s degree, and continued working part time for Boston Harbor Hotel’s Banquet Services. Lewin-Manakidis said she “wanted to change her life” in 2012, and, knowing she wanted to work in a community hospital, accepted a position at Beverly Hospital on Johnson 4. She currently works 12-hour night shifts in the ED.
“Working nights in the ED was the best decision of my life,” she said. “I’m super happy. This is where I want to retire from.”
Lewin-Manakidis said she became more culturally motivated in 2013 and began traveling to New York City several times a year to attend the theatre.
“I see between 20 and 40 plays a year — both on and off Broadway,” she said. “I also have a subscription to the Vineyard Theatre.”
Her next goal — inspired by her husband’s well-honed tennis skills — was to improve her own game. She is now a member of Bass River Tennis Club, where she runs into Beverly Hospital colleagues on a regular basis.
“Having outlets outside of the workplace keeps me balanced,” said Lewin-Manakidis. “You have one life to live; you don’t get any do-overs. If you can do the things you want, why not do them?”
