A Veteran who has several chronic diseases that have been being managed by the HBPC Team for which Ms. Zuppa is the case manager. His end of life goals were not in alignment with his extremely caring and supportive family. The Veteran wanted more of a palliative care approach and his family wanted everything done possible to keep him alive. Ms. Zuppa helped facilitate conversation between the 2 over the past few months creating dialogue for them.

When the Veteran was recently admitted to the hospital, he had a discussion with his family that he wanted to come home to hospice. Because they had had those difficult conversations prior, they could honor their father's wishes putting his desire first. Upon discharge, Lisa went to visit the Veteran at his daughter's home which she did not have to do as he was on hospice services. Lisa believed it was important for the Veteran to have closure and to continue supporting his family.

As she sat by his bedside, the Veteran took her hand and said, " I have had a beautiful life, I have a wonderful wife and family. I had a great career that I loved, I am ready to go anytime and it is ok. I appreciate everything the VA has done for me. You have taken good care of me and I called you my nurse, now I call you my friend and thank you for all that you have done for me." Watching this family transition over the prior months was gratifying for all and would not have been possible without Ms. Zuppa's Commitment and Advocacy for the needs of this Veteran. She truly exemplifies what it means to be a VA nurse!