The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone differently, in ways many of us never imagined. For Nori Sullivan, RN, BSN, CCRC, clinical research manager at Texas Oncology–Fort Worth Cancer Center, the pandemic robbed her of the opportunity to properly celebrate her father’s life when he passed away in early April.
As a captain in the U.S. Army Medical Service, Nori’s father, Linn Wetwiska, should have received a graveside service with military honors at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery upon his passing. COVID-19 safety protocols meant the ceremony could not take place at that time.
As Nori grieved the loss of her father, her Texas Oncology family stepped in to support her in the only way they knew how – with their whole hearts. They surprised Nori with a small, military-style service in the clinic’s community room to honor the man she loved so much. Nori was presented with a folded Texas flag flown over the Texas Capitol with a certificate signed by State Representative Richard Pena Raymond, and a folded American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol with a certificate signed by Congressman Michael T. McCaul.
“‘Taps’ was playing, and we gave Nori a 21-gun salute using party poppers. It was a beautiful tribute to her father,” said Krista Schroeder, practice director, Texas Oncology–Fort Worth Cancer Center, who expressed appreciation for everyone who made Nori’s ceremony special, including Debra Patt, M.D., MPH, MBA, executive vice president, policy and strategic initiatives, and HillCo Partners.
As for Nori, she says her Texas Oncology family helped heal a hole in her heart that she didn’t realize was still there.