When Carlos was admitted to the Kennestone ICU in May 2021, the accumulation of stress and fatigue experienced by healthcare clinicians over the prior 18 months of COVID-19 had led to concerns that compassion was eroding on the frontlines. But seventy-plus days after he was transferred to Kennestone, Carlos’ care team continues to lean into adversity and ensure that he doesn’t face his illness alone. Carlos reciprocates their gifts of care by accessing the courage that has defined him and inspired the team throughout his hospitalization. His bravery is a catalyst that deconstructs the narrative of emotional hardening and helps expose the magnitude and authenticity of his caregivers’ feelings.
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