Cathy M. Patrick, 56, of Jordan passed away Friday in the comfort of her home and the loving care of her family. Born in Dansville, NY Cathy moved to Jordan in 1989. She was a graduate of SUNY Brockport and she earned a Masters Degree from Syracuse University.
In her professional career Cathy introduced the role of breast-feeding educator and lactation consultant at St. Joseph’s Hospital over 25 years ago. As the Lead Breast-feeding Educator she created a curriculum for doctors and staff to learn the best methods for supporting mothers who were breast-feeding. Cathy led a multidisciplinary team who put in place the ten principles of Baby Friendly.
Her efforts brought about the International designation of St. Joseph’s Hospital as the only baby friendly hospital in Central new York. Throughout, Cathy provided a personal and professional example of these best practices by breast-feeding her own children, setting up a pumping room for staff, and beginning the practice of outpatient care visits for moms who needed help after discharge. Cathy was also instrumental as one of the founders of the CNY breastfeeding connection which brought community breastfeeding professional, educators and La leche League leaders together to work helping all mothers be successful at breastfeeding.
Cathy finished her career at Upstate University Hospital as the Women’s Health Coordinator. She was instrumental in the development of Upstate’s Breastfeeding initiative. She was a strong advocate for all women and babies.
She was instrumental in starting the journey at Upstate towards being a Baby Friendly Hospital. Cathy’s positive influence, dedication, hard work and smiling face will be greatly missed. Everyone who worked with her will feel the loss.
Cathy was a member of JEACB and JECS. She was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church, Jordan. She was predeceased by 2 brothers Dirk and Todd Surviving are her husband Joseph J. Patrick, 2 sons Abraham and Jonah, a daughter Lilly ( Ryan) Cashin, parents Julian and Joyce Pragle, a brother Derek (Josie) Pragle, 2 sisters Christine (Mike) Palya, and Kellie (Robert) Baldwin, 2 grandchildren Avery and Teegan several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be 3-7pm Wednesday at the Bush Funeral Home 120 E. Main St. (Rt. 5) Elbridge. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 10am Thursday in St. Patrick’s Church.
Spring burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Jordan. Cathy lived her life with loyal compassion and was a fiercely generous loving person. She was a life long learner, a world traveler and a passionate, devoted humanitarian.
Cathy will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and daughter. Contributions may be made to JE Dollars for Scholars or Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund.
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