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.

Following Independence Day 2021, COVID infectivity rates surge again, once again increasing the demand for ECMO machines and staffing resources. With optimism on the decline, Carlos continues to demonstrate his desire to live – exhibiting the fight and determination that the Kennestone ICU team has come to know so well. Nonetheless, his condition has deteriorated, and the team recognizes the need to consult the Ethics service. Difficult conversations are made even more challenging in light of the strong emotional attachments between Carlos and his caregivers.

With restrictions on visitations due to the high COVID-19 infection rates, hospitals look for creative ways to connect patients with their family members. Despite the innovation, frontline clinicians have often found themselves struggling with the realities of the pandemic – communicating virtually with families and sitting at the bedside holding the hands of dying patients. Despite his dependency on ECMO, Carlos makes daily progress over a 3-week stretch and surpasses the expectations of the Kennestone team. His determination and fighting spirit are reciprocated by a team in desperate need of hope.