At the Academy, we take pride in the lasting impact we have on our Members—helping them build successful practices that not only provide financial security but also the freedom to enjoy life beyond their careers. Recently, we received a heartfelt letter from a former long-time Member who wanted to share how his experience with the Academy transformed his life. From growing a thriving practice to enjoying a well-earned retirement filled with family, travel, and meaningful community work, his journey is a testament to the power of planning, support, and commitment.
With his permission, we are honored to share the words of Stanley Byrd as a reflection of what’s possible when you invest in your practice and your future. Read his inspiring story below:
Robert, Sanford & Jennifer:
After more than a decade, I looked again at the website of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys. To my delight, I saw that the three of you are still leading the organization.
After I joined the Academy in 1994 (soon after its founding) when I had a general law practice and then concentrated on estate planning, I loved, just loved, my law practice and did so up to my retirement. However, I have loved what I have been doing with my church work and family even more. I retired July 1, 2008. In August that year my wife and I went on an 18-month mission for our church. We now spend a month each year in Hawaii and another month visiting family out-of-state. We have monthly get-togethers with our seven children and their families. I spend significant time with my church work continually. In short, I am doing what I want and love after what I would characterize as a successful legal career.
Through all of these 17 years of retirement and continuing as an 85-year-old, I have had no financial worries thanks to the money I earned and saved while being a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys. I was doing okay before I joined. However, the Academy and its systems took me to a whole new level of income and enjoyment.
As a bonus, going to San Diego and other wonderful venues in the United States and Canada twice a year, as well as associating with like-minded attorneys throughout the country and exchanging ideas with them, was indeed a blessing to me.
As one who put the Academy to the test on the 25 or so claims it made at my initial bootcamp, and repeatedly thereafter, you came through every time.
I just wanted to thank you. Your organization really does make a difference in the lives of its members. As one who has been a beneficiary of that fact for over forty years now, I really do owe you a debt of gratitude and extend my sincere unsolicited appreciation.
Stanley R. Byrd
Seattle, Washington
Inspired by this story? Learn more about how the Academy can help you achieve your goals and build the future you envision. Contact us today.
Jennifer Price
Chief Operating Officer
American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, Inc.
9444 Balboa Avenue, Suite 300
San Diego, California 92123
Phone: (858) 453-2128
www.aaepa.com
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