In an article posted on Stat, pulmonary and critical care doctor, Daniela Lamas, recalls a meeting she had with the parents of Nohely, a nearly 30 year-old woman with cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. Nohely had a good life until a serious bout of pneumonia landed her in the hospital for six months and left her permanently connected to a ventilator. The meeting was to talk about finally sending her home. 

Lamas remarks: “Our understanding of each other’s worlds is superficial at best. For the hospital staff members, this is one of many meetings on an average Tuesday. But for Nohely’s parents, it is something else entirely. Yes, it is remarkable that their daughter will make it home again and, yes, they are grateful, but their life has been upended.”

Have you had a similar experience, either as a family caregiver or health care provider? Make a comment.