I'm writing to express my appreciation for the care my husband received from the Pittsburgh Veterans Healthcare system. In mid-June of 2023, he entered the Pittsburgh Oakland facility. From the moment J entered the Emergency Room, the treatment he received there over the next several weeks was world-class. Sadly, J's journey next took him to the Heinz Delafield Hospice Center. While heartbreaking, during the week he was there, he received excellent care from all of the staff. While everyone at the Heinz Center, right down to the very dedicated janitorial staff, did their best to make sure that he was comfortable and that the hospice center was welcoming, I would like to particularly recommend LPN Julie Hartstock to your attention.

J did not go easy. However, Ms. Hartstock was a rock on his last day. She was constantly making sure he was correctly positioned and as comfortable as possible, communicating with Dr. K, and the respiratory techs about his needs as his passing became more difficult. It was hard for me to see him like that, but I was at least assured that everything that could be done for him was being done. Ms Hartstock did not confine her care only to my husband; she many times checked on me, seemingly as concerned with my distress as she was with my husband.

J and I never had children, and neither of us have much family left. Therefore, Ms. Hartsock's care and compassion made a very difficult time just a bit easier to bear. You should be very proud to have her as an employee.

Again, many thanks to all in the Pittsburgh Area System, and to the Veterans Health Administration for the care you tendered to my husband over the years.