On February 2, 1990, Debbie Payton, age 31 at the time, joined Orthopedic Associates as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant for Dr. Rutledge, Jr. A native of Mobile, Alabama, this young wife and mother had no idea at the time just how important a role the medical practice would play in her life.
“There have been many people that have invested in my life, and I will be forever grateful,” Debbie says. “I’ve gained a family here at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C. and that is the hardest part of leaving.”
When she started at the practice, Debbie could not imagine the relationships she would develop with her work family. This was never more apparent than when Debbie experienced a medical emergency herself. She was set to have outpatient surgery on May 7, 2018, when she went into cardiac arrest on the way to the operating room. She was put on a ventilator, and the surgery was rescheduled for four weeks later – when she received a cancer diagnosis. She says,“The amount of support and outpouring of love I received was overwhelming. I learned how much my coworkers loved me and how they have all become family.”
After 31 years as a valued asset at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C., we are a mix of both happy and sad to celebrate Debbie Payton’s retirement.
HR Director Jennifer Lott shared, “I’ve worked with Debbie for two decades. When my first son was born 18 years ago, Debbie asked me for a photo of him so she could remember to pray for him as he grew. This sums up who Debbie is: she has a genuine concern for her co-workers and wishes the best for them with the deepest sincerity. I am truly happy that she is able to retire and enjoy this time with her grandchildren. She deserves it!”
One of Debbie’s biggest fans, Debbie White, shared, “I can’t believe my best friend is retiring! This place will not be the same without you, Debbie P. We have shared many laughs and tears these past 23 years. I have watched how you ‘minister’ to your patients and I remember watching you counsel a young man who was troubled. He left our office with a hug, a bandaid you placed on his arm that had a bible verse written on it, and a smile on his face. You have always been here for everyone. You always know what to say and what to do to make our day brighter. When you tell me you will pray for me, I know you have Jesus on speed dial and you will do it. Please don’t stop. I will try my best to have a heart like yours when it comes to our work family. We can all strive to be more like you. I can’t wait to see what God has planned for your next chapter. Triple D’s forever! Love you sister, Debbie W.”
When asked what retirement holds for Debbie, she excitedly shares that she will spend time singing, gardening, journaling and giving back to the community. She is most excited to spend more time with her two grandsons. Of her time at our practice, Debbie says “I’m taking many blessings with me as I go. The doctors, coworkers, and patients—I will keep each of them in a special place in my heart forever!”
Please join The Orthopaedic Group, P.C. in saying “Thank you for your hard work and commitment the past 31 years. Thank you for your caring to others and your community. Because of employees like you, The Orthopaedic Group, P.C. continues to be known for excellence in patient care!”
For more than 40 years, patients throughout the Gulf Coast have chosen our orthopaedic doctors at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C., for specialized care in the spine, shoulder and elbow, hand and wrist, hip and knee, and foot and ankle.
Our fellowship-trained doctors have extensive education and experience in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating all orthopaedic injuries and conditions.
Experienced, Expert care for over 40 years.
