Last fall, Natallia was caring for an ECMO patient who was going to die in two days. She had cared for this patient several times during his stay and gotten to know him. Knowing how much he loved Christmas, she rallied the ECMO specialists to help her quietly turn his room into a winter wonderland overnight. They made paper chains and paper snowflakes to hang around the room, and she put up a mini Christmas tree and lights she had brought in. Having heard that his beloved dog was coming in to say goodbye, she bought a dog toy that she wrapped in a pillowcase that smelled like him and then wrapped it up in wrapping paper. Under the tree, she had his favorite drink and the present for his dog, so they could enjoy one last early Christmas together.

This is just one example of the many times Natallia has gone above and beyond for one of her patients to create a special experience for them. She not only provides great medical care, but she also always looks for that extra way she can show compassion and empathy to her patients. It is also a great example of how she works to unite our care teams in every aspect of caring for our patients.