November 3, 2021
Joy’s Blog: In Awe
Just weeks ago, I shared that my dad moved in with my husband and I as he began palliative chemo and radiation at the Coborn Cancer Center. Little did I know the weeks ahead would be filled with so many ups and downs. We’ve had up-close views into care across many aspects of CentraCare – from Imaging to Lab to Pharmacy, to the Emergency Department and the list goes on and on. And we are in awe of the care we have received.
At the beginning of this journey, the Imaging department was ready to help my dad have a port placed. They answered his questions, talked him through everything and showed him what a port looked like. They made him feel part of the team. When he was worried about pain during the procedure, they reassured him. He came back afterwards saying, “that was a piece of cake!”
Next, we went to the Coborn Cancer Center – where the team is absolutely amazing! Jen and Tricia checked us in 5 days per week, often starting the process as they saw us approaching the door to speed things along, which was so helpful. Drs. Ufearo and Miller took time to get to know my dad as the kind, gentle and giving person that he is. Every single person has been fantastic — from the nurses to the radiation therapists and the care coordination team that continue to surround us during these circumstances. We have been supported when we were sad. And listened to and guided when new issues have popped up. We have truly been in awe of the care we have received.
“We have been supported when we were sad. And listened to and guided when new issues have popped up.”
As those who have experienced cancer or supported a loved one on a cancer journey know, the experience is unpredictable. One sunny October afternoon a couple of weeks ago, we rushed to the emergency department and then on to the Center for Surgical Care (CSC) for an unexpected kidney stone removal for my dad. Although this issue was unexpected and not part of his cancer care plan, it was addressed expertly and timely, despite how busy things have been. Every step of the way, team members apologized for delays and made sure my dad was comfortable. They did everything they could to keep things moving along for him. In the CSC we were well cared for by Laura, the Urology PA, Dr. Lee who performed the procedure, Dr. Eiler and all the nurses, nursing assistants and students who were working late on a Friday night so we could receive the care that was needed…again we were in awe.
As our not-so-good luck continued, my dad found his way admitted to the inpatient Medical and Oncology unit for aspiration pneumonia. This was the result of his Parkinson’s flaring up with all the stress of treatment on his body. Every single caregiver through every interaction showed concern for my dad’s safety and it was palpable. They used the transfer belt and walker every time he stood or walked, they ensured the bed exit was on when I was out of the room, they verified medications and ensured that double checks were completed when they needed to be done. Despite how busy I know things are, a safety step or check was never skipped. The compassion the team showed not only for my dad but for me too, again left me awestruck.
“The compassion the team showed not only for my dad, but for me too, again left me awestruck.”
Maya Angelou said “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This is exactly what we have experienced as a family in this journey thus far, from every department we have visited. We have been in awe of the care, compassion, and your commitment to safety. You truly put the patient and family at the center of what you do — day in and day out. This, at a time when we are facing extreme amounts of burnout both personally and professionally means a great deal to patients and their families.
I knew when my dad was diagnosed with cancer that we would bring him to CentraCare, but even after 26 years of working here, I am overwhelmed seeing the way you live and serve your purpose day in and day out!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you!
Joy
Joy Plamann DNP, MBA, RN, BC is Central Operations Senior Vice President and St. Cloud Hospital President
Joy I am happy your experience was so wonderful. We all need to remind ourselves why we are here each day. To take excellent care of others and help them through the tuff times. I lost my dad almost a year ago now and I cherish every moment I was able to spend with him. Remember to listen to all the stories he wants to tell you. I learned some new things in those last few days that I will cherish forever! Good luck and god bless.
Joy, I am so grateful, to hear of the professional and compassionate care your dad and yourself are receiving
Joy,
Thank you for sharing your journey. We appreciate you sharing such a personal and vulnerable story with us. We have a phenomenal team at CentraCare, and your dad is in great hands! Sending prayers for you and your whole family.
God Bless you Joy as you balance difficult challenges both at home and here. Your commitment to both your dad and to us is inspiring. Take care of yourself as you navigate these difficult times and know that your team here at SCH will do our best to handle things on this end. Mary
Thanks for sharing. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers
Joy, my 85 year young Mother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer at the age of 75. She remembered standing by her mothers side watching her die from Breast Cancer at the age of 71. She was scared nervous and overwhelmed. The truly wonderful care she received, especially a shout out to the team in at the Alexandria Radiation Oncology Department who take care of Mom and Dad with so much grace. She did mention to me recently that she would like to go say hi to them, I will make that happen for her soon. I recently lost my father due to COVID complications and am humbled by all the caregivers from CC Melrose, CC Long Prairie, and CC in St. Cloud during our journey. Hospice guided Dad and continue to heal Mom. I work for CentraCare as a byproduct of my own traumatic health journey. I am proud everyday to call everyone at CC as co-workers. Thank you for the continued sharing of your journey Joy.
What a beautiful perspective on a very difficult time. Lifting your father and you up in prayers.
Thanks for sharing your story, Joy. We are so lucky to have a leader like you who, in spite of it all, still inspires us in our work and always expresses gratitude.
Prayers for you and your family as you go through this journey.
Joy,
What a beautiful tribute to the staff! So kind of you to thank and think of others in your own time of need. May God Bless the journey ahead for you all.
Thanks for reminding us what we are really doing here. We hold you, your father and family in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.
Joy,
Thinking of you and your family during this journey with your dad.
Take care of yourself.
Thank you Julie! Asking for lots of help is a new and refreshing thing for me. I have learned we are surrounded by so many giving people and for that I am so thankful!
Thanks Joy for sharing your story and acknowledging the amazing work done within the many walls of CentraCare. “Awe is what moves us forward”, Joseph Campbell
Love this quote Kay, I agree!
God Bless your dad and you and your husband as you continue this journey. Blessed are we all as care providers to intersect with our patients & families. PTO – Positive Thoughts Only!!!!
Love that PTO acronym! I needed that yesterday, but now I have another tool in my toolbox to think of if it is needed! Thank you!
Thank you for sharing the tender journey you are having with your dad, Joy. We continue to hold you and your family in prayer.
Thank you Nicole…we can feel everyone’s support.
Joy, thank you for sharing your life, your journey and your heart in this time of challenge for your dad. I appreciate, as would be anticipated, you call by name, those who serve and partner with your dad and your family in this journey. Indeed, we have so many amazing staff, who recognize and honor those who come to us for care. How we make one another feel is so very important. Thank you for giving witness to the opportunity we all hold in our work each day.
Geri,
So true…my dad, sisters and I can name so many and it helps when people introduce themselves! We have so many committed team members who do what they do best everyday and each person has made a difference on our journey.