Kimberly Costello
September 2023
Kimberly
Costello
,
BSN, RN, CCRC, OCN
Office of Clinical Research
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Philadelphia
,
PA
United States

 

 

 

She said the most beautiful statement I have ever heard in my 83 years of going to different doctors: "We treat the whole family, not just the patient". That beautiful, sensitive statement defines Kim.
I was not the patient. My companion of 15 years was the patient in a prostate cancer clinical trial since August 2018. Both of us, solo and together, interacted with Kim on numerous occasions, in person or by phone for about 4.5 years, until B passed away in December of 2022.

I felt as if Kim was a friend. Many times, I would call her with what seemed like a personal question, because I didn't know where to turn. Those were difficult years for me. She said the most beautiful statement I have ever heard in my 83 years of going to different doctors: "We treat the whole family, not just the patient". That beautiful, sensitive statement defines Kim. When I questioned B's behavior changes, which I attributed to his being angry about his illness, Kim took the time to explain B's behavior and then compiled copies of B's brain scans and information on dementia, helping me to further understand B's behavior. Kim Costello absolutely went "above and beyond." Without her help and guidance, I would not have been able to cope. Kim possesses knowledge, professionalism, a caring nature, skills, and concern, etc. Interest and compassion cannot be learned!!