Patient & Caregiver Stories
Since the very beginning, our work has been informed by the values of the people we serve–the patients, caregivers and families, who put a face and a name to the issues and challenges of living with serious illness. They are our guides and teachers, inspiring us to fight for the care they need and deserve. Meet our patients and caregivers below.
Shirley Roberson | The Blue Chair
Shirley’s blue chair has become our guiding light, a reminder of how important it is to acknowledge the dignity of every individual, to listen and really hear what patients are sharing about their lives and hopes.
Rev. Diane Smalley | Equity and Transformation
She urged us to focus on “opening doors,” to greater transparency, empathy and treatment that respects patients’ values and goals.
Randy Curtis, MD | Doctor-Turned-Patient
He sees his legacy as the “people he’s mentored and touched in some way” and hopes they will pay it forward, influencing and mentoring others.
Norma Bauerschmidt | The Caregivers’ Journey
She chose to forego any invasive medical treatments. Instead, she chose adventure, dignity, and autonomy.
Teeshla Curtis | Finding Comfort in Advance Care Planning
She was an expert on ACP before being diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer, and became a living example of the importance of serious illness conversations.
Kathy Brandt and Kimberly Acquaviva | Quality of Life
As a hospice industry leader, she turned her grim ovarian cancer prognosis into a teachable moment.
Connie | Caring for the Whole Person
As she was experiencing homelessness, she was diagnosed with metastatic cancer when she found an amazing palliative care program that made all the difference.
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We are improving the lives by ensuring that 12 million impacted by serious illness receives high quality care, when and where they need it.
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