While I have several months of blogging to catch up on, I will start by going back to October 9, 2012. On that night, Mass General Hospital honored employees in patient-care services with the "One Celebration of Many Stars" awards ceremony. Mike's primary oncology nurse, Karen Ward (or KWard, as he would affectionately call her), was honored as the winner of the Marie C. Petrilli Oncology Nursing Award. For the past few years, Mike wanted to nominate Karen for a nursing award and see her recognized for her incredible dedication to her field. Last summer, I made sure I did just that. Mom C. and I were so proud to be present when Karen accepted her award. Karen was part of our lives since the very beginning of Mike's cancer journey. She was not only a terrific caregiver, but became a wonderful friend. As it turned out, Karen was also with us as Mike took his last breath in this world.
Mike's primary oncologist, Dr. Karen Ballen, was also at the awards ceremony. It wasn't as difficult to return to Mass General as I thought -- maybe because I knew I was there to fulfill a goal of Mike's, as well as to honor an incredible nurse and friend.
I've included a video of the awards presentation below.
Karen and Mom C.
Karen, me and Mom C.
Karen, me and Dr. Ballen
Karen and her parents
1 comment:
I remember this. xoxo
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