Kristin Surdej, L.M.S.W., is with the private geriatric care management firm of Toby Laping Associates, in Buffalo, New York (website: www.WNYCareManager.com). She has been with Toby Laping Associates since 1995. Mrs. Surdej has national certification as a care manager. She is a social worker, licensed by New York State with a Master's degree in social work and with special interest in geriatric services and health care delivery. As an advocate for the elderly and a professional geriatric care manager Mrs. Surdej participates in events to educate the public on community services related to the elderly. She regularly is invited by the human resources departments to speak to employees of local companies such as Moog and National Fuel. LikewiseMrs. Surdej presents for the local Alzheimer’s Association chapter and other groups to families regarding services for the elderly that are available in the community. With the goal of educating consumers and other professionals Mrs. Surdej spent many hours on research and training related to the Medicare Part D benefit. In December 2005, she developed a Medicare web site guide used in training by Erie County Department of Senior Services.

Mrs. Surdej is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, American Society on Aging and the National Association of Private Geriatric Care Managers. She is a member and serves on a committee at WNY Alzheimer's Association and the Network in Aging. Mrs. Surdej also is presently on the Board of Directors for the Network in Aging.Mrs. Surdej received her B.A. and M.S.W. degrees from the University of New York at Buffalo. She can be reached at 716-884-3277 or at KMSurdej@aol.com.