Page 43 - St. John's Healthcare Foundation FY17 Annual Report

Funding from the Diane Warren Foundation supported live music therapy, as part of the

Palliative Care program, at both St. John’s Hospital campuses. “Music connects us to

others and brings solace in the present, and is just one of the ways that we provide care

at a time of crisis.” Sister Suzanne. Human connections through compassion

Palliative Care

Human connections St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital Sub-acute facility had been Bill’s home for more than two years,

Human connections through compassion
when his medical team recommended a procedure for full treatment of his condition. However, Bill did
not want full treatment. St. John’s Palliative Care team spent hours with Bill, “listening” as he laid out
his concerns on paper, since he could no longer speak. His goal was that his condition be controlled
without the loss of any more abilities that would increase his dependency. The Palliative Care team
through compassion engaged Bill’s physician and family to develop a plan of care that maintained the best quality of life
possible for Bill– one that honored his values and wishes, while preserving his dignity. In his last letter
to his brother, Bill describes his experience with the Palliative Care team, “They were both very nice and
listened well while leading at the same time. Quite a talent if I say so myself! They are genuinely interested in
my thoughts and feelings without casting dissent or approval.”

St. John’s Hospitals’ Palliative Care team’s primary focus is to ensure that patients who are recovering
from a serious illness or injury, or who are facing end of life, are relieved from suffering. They
encourage patients to clarify their goals for medical care through advance directives, to reflect on
family stories, and to consider their legacy. “Our goal is to be present to people as they are dealing with
a life-limiting illness or injury. That presence is as important at illness or end of life as when you are born.”
Sister Suzanne Krawczyk, RSM, RN, Director of Palliative Care.

St. John’s Hospitals are very grateful for the charitable contributions that have allowed staff to increase
their skills through “Innovations in Palliative Care” training, funded printing of educational materials for
patients and families, and supported partnership expansion that increased the availability of palliative
care volunteers.

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