Retirement Party for Herrin Animal Hospital, Dr. Louis A. Herrin, DVM – Bloomington, Illinois
Post by David – Cathy and David Photographers
I could say that there have been a lot of photographers out there that have influenced how Cathy and I run our business. We’ve had a ton of help from a lot of amazing people out there, who’ve been kind enough to offer their advice and share ideas. That said, there has been no influence on our business that even comes close to my step-dad and how he runs his veterinary hospital. Herrin Animal Hospital has been in business in Bloomington, Illinois for over 30 years and has served thousands of clients. Lou and my mom, Lori, have run this business with one business model: Clients are part of your family. Treat them like they are a family member, always do everything you can for them, always be understanding of issues that your clients have, no matter how big or small. Do these things and people will continue coming back to you and your business.
I’ve looked at the clinic as the basis of our business. Everything I do for our clients is because of the example that Lou has given me. I still remember seeing how happy people were to see my family at the clinic when they came in, not just because they knew their dogs and cats would be safe with Dr. Lou, but because they were genuinely excited and happy to see him. He was, and always will be their friend. People come up to him at restaurants and give him hugs, they wave to him when he’s driving one of his cars, and they send piles and piles of Christmas cards.
A few months before they were to retire, my mom decided to plan a surprise retirement party and put a small ad in the newspaper inviting all of their past and current clients. I gave a call to Terry Mautner out of Indianapolis to see if he could DJ the event (Terry has become a good friend since working Danielle and Lucas’ wedding because of the awesome job he did for them). So, the food was prepared and the event was set. The question was, would anyone come?
Boy did they. Over 300 people showed up that afternoon, all piling into the room we’d rented to await the arrival of Dr. Lou (who had been tricked into thinking he was attending a friend’s birthday party). As soon as he rounded the corner to enter the room, we all yelled in unison, tears already forming in our eyes, “Surprise!” A flood of people rushed at Lou, forming a line for the chance to congratulate him, coming with stories, tears, and hugs for him and my mom for taking such good care of their pets. Seeing these people, these ‘clients’, many of which I’ve known for years, it was honestly hard to tell them apart from the family members of mine that came. It was like seeing people from our family, far off relatives that I’d never met, that Mom and Lou had known for years. My goal in my business is to have that kind of relationship with our clients and peers. We do our best to extend the same kindness and love to everyone we meet, and it’s what we strive for.
Congratulations, Lou and Lori (Mom)! We are so excited that you guys can finally enjoy the freedom of retirement. We love you both and can never thank you enough for the example of love and kindness that you have given us.
That said, on with the photos.
DJ: Terry Mautner
Location: The DoubleTree, Bloomington
The Clinic: Herrin Animal Hospital – now Bortell Animal Hospital.
Some of the details.
My Aunt Barb and Uncle Mark trains seeing eye dogs. This is their current student.
This client made this quilt for the clinic by hand. It had lots of pictures from the clinic on it!
My Aunt Grace, Uncle Keith and Aunt Barb.
Luigi was a bit overwhelmed when he walked in, it was a surprise, and he had no idea how to react.
This room was COMPLETELY full. We think it may have been a fire hazard. Oh well!
It was too much for Lou.
My mom made it through her speech without crying too much, but Lou didn’t make it.
My sister recounting childhood memories.
Dr. Bortell, the new owner and Lou’s associate of more than 10 years, and his kids showing a poster they made for him.
This line for Lou, went around the outside hall, back through the room and all the way to the back.
Just so everyone knows, I have the cutest cousin on the planet. Sorry, you can’t top Jacob.
My favorite shot of the night of Mom and Lou as the event was coming to a close.
When we got home this pile of cards was waiting for us. This was HALF of them.
A special thank you again to Terry for playing some great music all night long, and to all of the clients who came to see my step-dad and mom and wish them luck in their retirement. On a side note, Luigi surprised Mom with a trip/cruise to Costa Rica for Christmas. I am so excited for them, but honestly, I just wish I could just go with them to take pictures.
Thanks for reading. – David.
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