Kendaree Burgess-Fairn is a gregarious, vibrant career woman always on the move in her demanding role as King Edward VII Memorial Hospital's communications specialist.

I queried exactly what she does there and she replied, "I report directly to the executive director of Bermuda Hospitals Board,(BHB) Mrs. Sheila Manderson. I am responsible for protecting the integrity and the image of BHB.

"I am the official spokesperson for the Board and am responsible for both external and internal communications.

"This includes producing the annual report, corporate branding issues, production of all collateral material and corporate videos. Internally, I oversee all internal communications and monitor its effectiveness.'' Mrs. Burgess-Fairn has been in this role since 1995 and constantly strives for excellence. This year she was bestowed two prominent awards: "Award of Excellence'' 1997 Annual Report -- Rx Society of America "Bronze Award'' 1997 Annual Report -- National Health Information Awards.

A strong educational background has helped her achieve the position she thrives upon at the hospital.

In 1980 she was a graduate of The Berkeley Institute. She studied abroad for the next eight years beginning with a year at the Fryeburg Academy, Maine followed by Saint Mary's University, Nova Scotia. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with additional courses in management science, statistics and computer degree.

Additionally, she is a member of numerous professional groups such as the American Society for Healthcare Marketing and Development.

She generously serves as Director of Public Relations for CedarBridge Academy and has served two years on the Bermuda International Film Festival.

When I asked her what the most challenging aspect of her work is she responded, "Hospitals are serious businesses, what happens at our hospitals impact the whole Island. Typical projects for me might include a mix of crisis communications and positive story placements in the media, preparing speeches for the Chairman of the Board, producing corporate videos and organising the next public hospital event. Every day is different!'' One of the most rewarding facets of her job is knowing the positive work she does changes opinions, and in some cases, behaviours.

Many stresses come across her path on a daily basis.

"Stress, it's a real part of my job, I am careful not to take it home.

Physical exercise helps me to relieve stress.

"Mostly I relax at home with my family. I love to try new things such as fencing, gourmet cooking classes, sailing and coastal navigation,'' she shared.

Mrs. Burgess-Fairn balances a high profile job with her responsibilities as a parent. I questioned how she feels about being a career woman and the mother of a young daughter and she concluded, "I feel great about it! No-one said life was easy. My role in life is to work hard, try my best, help any and everywhere I can and enjoy myself!'' Kendaree Burgess-Fairn, communication specialist, at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and St. Brendan's Hospital.