Serious Medicine. Extraordinary Care.

It's not just a saying.

Monday was the 1st anniversary of the passing of my sweet husband, Zach. It was a beautiful and peaceful day; much like the sunset was one in Omaha one year ago. I received two significant items in the mail on Monday. They each reminded me of the motto that the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) uses: "Serious Medicine. Extraordinary Care."

The first piece of mail that I saw was an account statement from the hospital's billing office. I just had to laugh and think, of course it had to come today. After I had opened it, I breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing the words "this is not a bill." I love those words. I flipped through the six pages enclosed in the envelope and read words I don't have to think about much anymore. There in my hands was a list of medicines and procedures that Zach had received during just one month. Anyone who might look at the list can see that the treatments he received were top of the line ... state of the art ... it truly was serious medicine.

The second item in the mail on Monday was a thoughtful card sent to me from Zach's oncologist Dr. Julie Vose and her two case managers that faithfully worked with us, Diane and Bettina. Take note here, because this is the most important part of UNMC. The care REALLY IS extraordinary. Not only did the doctors, physician's assistants, nurses, techs, custodians and even cafeteria workers show the utmost concern for us while Zach was a patient, but it continues for me even today, one year later. I have received several cards and calls from Dr. Vose and her staff during the past year and it always warms my heart. A few of the nurses have become dear friends of mine.

Zach and I were always grateful for the two parts that made up UNMC: the treatment of cancer and treatment of our spirits. "Serious Medicine. Extraordinary Care." is not just a saying. It's the way it is at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
 

Bettina, Zachary's Case Manager