Dr. Paredes' retirement letter to patients
October 29, 2026
Dear Parents and Families,
After 50 wonderful and rewarding years in Pediatric Private Practice, the time has come for me to announce my retirement. My last day at Great Kids Pediatrics will be Tuesday, November 24, 2026.
This decision comes with mixed emotions, as practicing Pediatrics has been much more than a profession to me; it has been one of the greatest privileges and joys of my life, and has brought me close to all the families that have entrusted me with the care of their most precious gift, that of their children.
Over these many years, I have had the extraordinary opportunity to care for thousands of children, watch them grow into adulthood, and, in many instances, welcome them back as parents with children of their own, whom I call my “grand patients”. Two months ago, in August, I was honored to become the pediatrician of my first-ever “great-grand patient”, a beautiful baby born on August 16, 2026.
The relationships and friendships developed with your families have been truly special, and I will always treasure them.
I am also very pleased to share that Great Kids Pediatrics will continue under the leadership of Dr. Ann Lee, an excellent and dedicated pediatrician who has worked alongside me for the past 19 years. She knows our patients, our families, and the values of service and understanding upon which our practice was built.
The other three excellent pediatricians: Dr. Karen Zorrilla, who has been with us for 11 years; Dr. Hannah Kline, for 4 years; and our newest Pediatrician, Dr. Robert Saldana, who completed his Pediatric Residency at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, will also continue providing the same compassionate, professional care that you have come to expect from our clinic.
Knowing that the practice will remain in the hands of physicians I know and trust gives me tremendous peace of mind as I begin this new chapter of my life.
I want to reassure you that your children’s medical care will continue without interruption. Our office will remain available to assist with appointments and medical records, as needed.
To all the parents who have entrusted me with the health and well-being of their children, I offer my deepest and most sincere gratitude.
I will miss seeing your children grow, hearing about their accomplishments, and sharing the many wonderful moments that make pediatrics such a special profession.
I will carry with me a lifetime of cherished memories!
With heartfelt appreciation and warmest wishes to you and your families,
Dr. Abel J. Paredes