Page 22 - April 2016 Life In Naples Magazine

FOR THAEvoCwOEMnhaMnceUs SNeIrvTicYes

A vow Hospice has been a trusted provider of care and
comfort in Naples since 1983. Some things are changing
and new programs are being added, however their
commitment to exceptional service is an unwavering constant. Dr

Cynthia Nehrkorn assumed responsibility as Medical Director

early this year, but this is not new territory for her. She joined the

Avow team in 2003 and is extremely proud of the advocacy work

that has been provided to the community. Board Certified in

both Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Medicine Dr

Nehrkorn enjoys teaching and offering guidance to staff, family

members and patients.This busy mother of two feels that sharing

and caring is not just what you do it represents who you are. She

is committed to her patients and feels that being allowed to share

space and time with families at a vulnerable time in their life is

sacred. Dr Nehrkorn values hearing the patient’s life story and

providing an environment where respect, dignity and comfort is

the standard. New programs and initiatives will unfold during

this next year and she expresses excitement about meeting

additional needs and reaching out to a new demographic.

Palliative Medicine: The primary purpose of this medical

by Sandra Lee Buxton model is to offer modalities to alleviate discomfort thereby

improving the quality of life. Individuals with chronic diseases DR CYNTHIA NEHRKORN

(heart, lung, kidney or cancer) would benefit as physical as well

as psychological pain is addressed. It is important that emotional Currently there is a plan to offer a day and

support for both patient and family is provided and the patient overnight children’s grief support camp which

may retain their private physician while utilizing this service. may be initiated this summer.

Children’s Services: Children with a terminal illness require The Naples community should look forward

Pediatric Hospice Professionals but Avow recognizes that an to an increase in educational presentations this

entire family is in crisis. Support is available for the entire family year as Avow stresses that they are much more

and the child may benefit from music and massage therapies. than terminal care. Support for children, adults

An RN is on call 24/7 to answer questions or concerns that and caregivers are available at no charge and

the family may have. Avow is currently fundraising to expand the benefits are immediate and long lasting.

pediatric palliative care. As with the adult program, this will be an A few of the topics covered are understanding

interdisciplinary approach for children who do not need Hospice the disease process, how to offer physical care

care but who are dealing with chronic or a serious illness. to a loved one, evaluating family dynamics and

Children’s Bereavement Services: This important program simply learning to cope. Dr Nehrkorn feels

is designed for children between the age of 5-18 and focuses strongly that taking care of oneself enables an

on support and companionship. It is important to acknowledge individual to better manage difficult situations.

that children process and understand loss very differently than The good news is that help is only a phone call

an adult. The loss may be due to death of a parent, family away. If you or someone you know could use

member or even a friend. Monthly support groups are held more information about these or other Avow

on the Avow campus which provides a safe nonjudgmental programs/services then call 239.261.4404.

milieu to work through this painful and confusing experience. Avow has solutions!

22 Life in Naples | April 2016