October 2017
Kathy
Lernan
,
RN
Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals - Center City (PA)
Philadelphia
,
PA
United States
Kathy helped me move my 6 ft 4 in, 240-lb husband so I could lie next to him after my family and I decided to let him go. She stayed well beyond her shift to help me turn off his machines. She helped me pass the most difficult milestone in my life so far. I trusted Kathy who cared for my husband and me so much, with my soul and my husband's life. She helped me make the most painful decision I've ever had to make. She always knew what to say to me. In the end, she would not leave her shift until my husband and God made their decision about when to go, and she could leave me in peace. My pain is deep and profound, but I know it was the right decision for him. That, to me, means my husband experienced a Culture of Health, even at the end of his life. Kathy knew the value of making a human connection. Her care, her experience, her hugs were what mattered most at that time.