“We all will be at the receiving end of critical illness for ourselves or our loved ones. It is almost guaranteed. A family’s needs are the blind spot of the overstretched and dysfunctional healthcare system that needs to be addressed. Here, Kristin Flanary, also known as Lady Glaucomflecken, shares her experience, hoping to highlight the challenges of the families who are at the receiving end of critical illness for their loved one.

Take-home lessons for health care professionals: While clinical excellence and focus on the patient is an absolute given, what sets a great HCP apart is clear and frequent communication, empathy and kindness. Let’s do better.”