“We’ve been wrong about what our job is in medicine. We think our job is to ensure health and survival. But really it is larger than that. It is to enable well-being.”
-Atul Gawande, Being Mortal: Illness, Medicine and What Matters in the End
Deborah, wife of Robert Burke
“There aren’t enough words to express what Carolyn meant to us & our family. Every day was less stressful for me when I saw Carolyn making her rounds.
Her daily coordination & implementation of care was instrumental towards Bob's recovery and transition to home with care through hospice. Her dedication, compassion and expertise was a welcome and calming effect for our family in this life changing event. ”
Michael, son of Anthony Battaglia
“I lost my father Anthony on April 23, 2024. When my father was in critical condition, I reached out to Carolyn. We spoke extensively about the severity of his condition, and about the options that we had in front of us. I didn’t want to lose my dad, but I didn’t want him to suffer either. After speaking with Carolyn for almost an hour, I went back into the hospital room feeling confident about the decision we were making. I sat with my father for his final hours and held his hand until he was gone. He went with a dignity and grace, and he is no longer in pain. I thank God for Carolyn and her guidance. If you’re in this position and you’re full of fear and uncertainty, reach out to Carolyn and she can walk you through your options to help navigate the challenges ahead. Thank you Carolyn from myself and the entire family. ”
Jessica Baker, ICU Nurse
“Carolyn is without a doubt the person you want guiding you through the advance care planning process. As an ICU nurse who deals with difficult patient and family conversations each shift, I can say that Carolyn is the person I want by my side. She is knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and respectful of patient and family wishes. I have witnessed first-hand how, after she talks with patients and families, they are comfortable in their decisions and are well-prepared for what is to come. ”
Emily, daughter of Jean Velez
“Carolyn was the nurse practitioner on the intensivist team when my mother was in the intensive care unit. Carolyn provided updates and was by our side when my father and I needed to talk through the decisions that needed to be made when it came to my mother's medical care. She wanted to make sure we had all the information needed in order to make the most informed decisions. When the time came for my mother to enter hospice, we felt supported and comforted knowing that this was unfortunately the next step. My family couldn't have gone through this without Carolyn and we are eternally grateful for her care and support through one of the most difficult times in our lives.”
John Wagner, MD, Critical Care Physician
“Carolyn’s abilities as a clinician have consistently impressed me. She always displays calm, competence and compassion in all situations. Clarity would be my first choice for my family.”
