When we understand what matters most to a patient living with a serious illness early in the course of treatment, the results are remarkable. Patients feel better and live better. Check out these stories of real people living with a serious illness and benefitting from palliative care.

Meet Aly.

A 23-year-old, self-described Type A personality college student and sports enthusiast. A real go-getter.

closeup of aly and her dog

Diagnosis: Juvenile arthritis, mast cell disease, Churg-Strauss Syndrome.

 

Meet Kelly.

A single mom whose whole world centers on the love, happiness and well-being of her young son.

closeup of kelly with her son

Diagnosis: Chronic pain due to lupus, mitochondrial disease, autonomic neuropathy.

   

Meet Beth.

A 55-year-old environmental activist and director of the office of sustainability for Baltimore, who works tirelessly to help beautify her city one planted tree at a time.

palliative care patient beth planting a tree

Diagnosis: Stage IV appendix cancer.

 

Meet Debbie.

Hair dresser, salon owner and unofficial therapist to her clients who turn to her not only for a good cut, but great advice on everything from boyfriends to community issues.

palliative care patient Debbie sitting in chair in her salon

Diagnosis: Multiple myeloma.

 

Meet David.

A 73-year-old retiree married for more than 51 years and dedicated to taking care of his family.

palliative care patient david

Diagnosis: Colorectal cancer.

 

Meet Matt.

A 38-year-old artist and snowboarder.

matt in wheelchair painting with brush in his mouth

Diagnosis: Paralysis from upper chest down due to a an accident at age 23. The resulting shortness of breath, severe nerve pain and emotional stress continued for years.

 

Want to share your story?

Submit your palliative care success stories directly with us or share on social media with the hashtag #AHApalcarestories.

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