“Amazing Care!” “My Experience Was Outstanding!” See Our Latest Patient Letters and Commendations!
Over the last few months, dozens of team members and teams from across the organization provided such an outstanding consumer experience that people wrote letters, called, emailed, or posted about them.
To view their grateful notes and comments, simply scroll down or click on any of the areas below:
- Bronx
- Brooklyn
- Long Island
- Manhattan
- Queens
- Westchester & Upstate Region
- Health Plan Member Commendations
Bronx
“I’m very grateful.”
A Bronx Home Care patient called to commend his care team, stating that the nurses have been taking “great care” of him and that “I’m very grateful.” He wanted to especially express his gratitude to Nurses Kamika Grant-Barnett and Donna Marku for being “very wonderful” with him.
“Amazing care.”
A patient’s daughter posted this compliment for Nurse Donna Marku and Physical Therapist Jose Hernandez on social media: “Love VNS Health. My dad had an amazing nurse from June 2023 until he passed on Easter Sunday. Donna Marku was so much more than a VNS Health nurse, she was an extended member of our family. VNS Health allows vulnerable people like my dad to access amazing care in the comfort of their home. I am grateful for everything Donna did to help my dad, as well as Jose and others over the years.”
“Literally changed the outcome of my daily life.”
A patient called in to say that Nurse Kamika Grant-Barnett has been a “lifesaver” for him and that she “really cares.” The patient added that Kemika has “literally changed the outcome of my daily life.”
Brooklyn
“Major accolades.”
A Brooklyn Home Care patient called to commend Physical Therapist Februarito Cortez, saying that he went “above and beyond” for her and she wanted to make sure that Februarito received “major accolades for his service and professionalism.”
“You brought us comfort and clarity during a difficult time.”
The daughter of a Brooklyn Personal Care client recently sent a note expressing her heartfelt appreciation for her mother’s team, including HHA Supervisors Celeste Givens, Keoisha Jackson, Veronica Amoah, Graciela Baltazar, and Vivian Vazquetelles. “Their support has brought us comfort and clarity during a difficult time,” wrote the daughter. “They didn’t just answer the phone when I called but answered my questions. I also want to extend special thanks to the caregivers who work directly with my mom. Knowing she is cared for by such capable, thoughtful individuals gives our family peace of mind every day.”
“Came in with a smile.”
Home Health Aide team member Lurine Hutchinson received a compliment from another Brooklyn client who called to say that Lurine “came in with a smile” and that she “is an excellent and wonderful individual.”
“We all appreciate you!”
A Brooklyn patient wrote a note of thanks to NORC Field Supervisor Daniella Faylayev for her “caring and compassion” as she spoke about the importance of self-care. “We all appreciate you!” the patient added.
“An excellent therapist.”
A patient phoned to express her gratitude to Coordinator of Physical Therapy Services Tarek Elsayed. “Tarek is an excellent therapist and is helping me so much,” the patient said.
“Kind, caring, and extremely competent.”
Home Health Aide Supervisor Beverly Ward was recently commended by a Personal Care client for being “kind, caring, quick to respond, and extremely competent.” The client also added that Beverly is “proficient” and has “outstanding people skills.”
Long Island
“Thank you for the great work.”
Physical Therapist Patricia Vieira was praised by the son of a Long Island Home Care patient, who wrote to say “thank you for the great work” Patricia is doing with his mother. The son also noted that her therapy has “helped to improve blood flow and facilitate wound healing.”
“I’m truly lucky that you came into my life.”
The son of a patient in VNS Health Home Care’s Advanced Illness Management (AIM) program sent a note expressing his “deepest gratitude” to Clinical Care Manager Seth Simpson. “I’m truly lucky that you came into my life,” he wrote. “With your help, I was able to navigate the hardest time of my life and was able to get my father what he needed to spend his last days of his life next to his family and as comfortable as possible.”
Manhattan
“We are so grateful for her time and kindness.”
A health plan member’s sister sent a message thanking Veterans Benefits Support Coordinator Dayana Laventure. “Dayana does not know my brother and we are complete strangers to her—but the genuine effort and time she has given me and my brother is unimaginable to me,” she noted. “We are so grateful for her time and kindness.”
“A Godsend.”
The niece of an Upper East Side Hospice patient stated how pleased they were with Home Health Aide Matilda Aldana Torres. “Matilda is a ‘Godsend’ and always anticipates my aunt’s needs,” said the niece. “When she is not providing direct care for my aunt, such as providing reminders to take her medications, she does light housework. We want to make sure that Matilda is recognized for her excellent work.”
“You are always there for me.”
The Upper East Side Hospice team also received praise from the family member of another patient who stated, “you people are so kind, and always there for me.” Another patient’s family member noted that “VNS Health did a great job helping.” Yet another relative said that the team’s care and support was “wonderful and enabled the patient to live a little longer in comfort.” One other grateful family member said of the team, “their services were wonderful. I tell everyone about it.”
“Truly one of a kind.”
A Hospice patient’s husband called to “sing the praises” of Nurse Alexis Pavlovich, who he said has gone “above and beyond” for his wife. The husband described Alexis as “an angel” and “truly one of a kind,” adding that she has demonstrated “extreme empathy, compassion, and patience.”
“My experience was outstanding.”
A Manhattan Home Care patient wrote in to commend the work of Nurse Jessica Yanqui, Physical Therapist Blesilda Murillo, and Intake Coordinator Reezeena Asgarally. “My experience with your home care was outstanding following my right knee replacement surgery,” the patient noted. “Jessica and Blesilda were impressive in their knowledge, their responsiveness, and their overall intelligence taking care of me. Reezeena was excellent, too. I appreciated her cheerfulness and efficiency. Thanks so much!”
“Wonderful and personable.”
Physical Therapist Wendy Klansky was complimented by the spouse of a Manhattan Home Care patient who called to say that Wendy was “wonderful and personable and pushes the patient forward with the best intentions.” The spouse added that she “could not say enough good things” about Wendy!
“The perfect mix of energy.”
A patient who was cared for by our Gender Affirmation Program (GAP) emailed a shout out to their “incredible” Nurse Yesbel Fernandez. “Yesbel has been absolutely incredible,” the patient wrote, “so genuine, knowledgeable, supportive, and fun. The perfect mix of energy that I needed right now in recovery. Thank you and everyone at VNS Health for the support. I’m truly grateful.”
“Having this community has made a meaningful difference.”
Social Work Intern Marena Dunnington and the entire GAP team were praised by a patient who expressed her gratitude for their support. The patient added, “having this community has made a meaningful difference for me.” The GAP team was also complimented by another patient who wrote to share their appreciation for GAP’s support group. “It is one of the only groups where I participate because I feel that my identity is protected,” the patient noted. “The facilitators are empathetic to each individual’s needs and create a respectful, safe space.”
“Excellent.”
The daughter of a Hospice patient was thankful for the care that her mother received from VNS Health—adding that she especially wanted to thank Nurse Dolores Navarro, adding that she was “excellent.”
“She provided us with immense peace of mind.”
A Personal Care client’s spouse sent a note praising the extraordinary dedication shown by Home Health Aide Lena Reid during last February’s blizzard. “Recognizing that her absence would leave us in a vulnerable and potentially dangerous situation, Lena made the selfless decision to remain overnight,” the spouse wrote. Conditions remaining treacherous, she did the same the next night. Remarkably, this is not the first time she has done this; she made the same sacrifice during the storm on January 25. In my experience, it is rare to encounter someone so deeply committed to the well-being of those in their care. Lena’s actions went far beyond her professional obligations and provided us with immense peace of mind during a frightening and historic storm. We are profoundly grateful to have Lena as part of our care team. It is a credit to you and your agency that you employ individuals of such character and dedication.”
“I will forever be grateful.”
A patient wrote to say that Physical Therapist Manuel III Espino was “more than professional and an astute therapist.” The patient added, “I will forever be grateful to him for all he did for me. When I first met him, I could barely walk, and now I no longer need my walker or cane.”
“We are so pleased with his services.”
A patient’s daughter phoned to compliment Physical Therapist Jayson Manalastas. “Jayson is wonderful,” she said. “We are so pleased with his services, and the patient is progressing well.” Another patient also called with positive feedback for Jayson, stating that “Jayson’s services are a 10 out of 10.”
“You made me feel understood and heard.”
A patient from the Gender Affirmation Program sent thanks to Licensed Social Worker Asha Lyons. “Thank you so much for your help and the care you’ve extended to me,” the patient said. “I’m so grateful to have you guys in my life.” Another GAP patient also wrote in thanking Asha: “You made me feel understood and heard in the midst of physical pain and difficult emotions following my surgical complications, and you connected me to social and financial resources that I wouldn’t have had access to otherwise. Most of all, thank you for your encouragement and for reminding me I have the strength to get through difficult things on my path to feeling whole.”
“More than a caregiver.”
Home Health Aide Cecilia Altagracia Santos was recently commended by her client’s daughter, who penned a note of appreciation for her. “Over time, Cecilia has become more than just a caregiver to us—she truly feels like part of our family,” the daughter noted. “She consistently treats my mother, as well as anyone she encounters while working with her, with kindness, respect, and professionalism. Her compassion and reliability have given me a level of trust that is very difficult to come by when caring for a loved one, and I am deeply grateful for that.”
“A fantastic experience.”
A client’s daughter complimented Home Health Aide Maurice Moses, saying that they had “a fantastic experience” with Maurice!
“My infinite thanks go out to all of you!”
A Gender Affirmation Program patient wrote to thank Licensed Social Worker Asha Lyons and Social Work Intern Melissa Valencia for “supporting and helping” the patient. “A special thank you to Melissa, who has played a fundamental role in my recovery,” the patient added. “She’s been incredibly attentive to me, as has the entire support group. My infinite thanks go out to all of you!”
“So kind and wonderful.”
The family member of a Hospice patient noted his appreciation for the hospice team, adding particular thanks to Spiritual Care Counselor David Adelson for being “so kind and wonderful.”
“An exceptional nurse.”
In a recent phone call, one of our partners at The Apsley Assisted Living spoke very highly of Nurse Aoife Ducke—describing Aoife as “an exceptional nurse” and praising her “compassion, dedication, and communication.”
“I’m most grateful for the excellent care I received!”
A note came in from a Manhattan Home Care patient who reported that Physical Therapist Milissa Mondestin was “absolutely wonderful to work with!” The patient added, “she was so knowledgeable, so gentle, so strict, encouraging, also so generous and personable. Milissa could read me; she completely anticipated what exercise would begin to help me move. Each time she came we made progress! I’m most grateful for the excellent care I received! Thank you for sending Milissa to help me!” Another patient also had wonderful things to say about Milissa, noting that it was “a privilege” to have Milissa as her physical therapist. “She is patient, observant, very knowledgeable, a great teacher with compassion and understanding,” the patient added. “She deserves a greater than 5 rating if you ask for one! I’d say she was a 10!”
“Over the past four years, she’s brought me back to life.”
Home Health Aide Bintou Traore received a rave review in a letter from one of her clients. “Bintou executes our care plan with 100% professionalism, and more importantly continues to aid my physical and emotional healing,” the client wrote. ”She helped me get back on my feet by encouraging me to get out of bed, walk more, eat, bathe, engage with my neighbors and participate more in daily activities at my residential site. She’s become an integral part of my care team by participating in all my medical appointments. She’s also a friend who’s been part of my emotional healing, especially during my grieving period upon the passing of my mother. Over the past four years, she’s brought me back to life.”
“Very dedicated.”
A patient recently complimented Hospice Nurse Angeli De Leon, saying that she is “a beautiful nurse” who is “very dedicated”. The patient’s only wish is that Angeli could come more often!
“There’s no way I could have achieved what I did without him.”
A Manhattan patient emailed to say what a “great job” Physical Therapist Richard Lapan does! The patient wrote that Richard “helped me get on my feet after a total knee replacement, pushing me to do what I didn’t think I could do, keeping me from doing too much, and correcting exercises and stretches when I was lazy or did something wrong. There’s no way I could have achieved what I did without him.”
“I would recommend VNS Health to everyone I know.”
A Gender Affirmation Program patient expressed their deep appreciation for the program team, especially Licensed Social Worker Asha Lyons and Social Work Intern Marena Dunnington. After undergoing surgery, said the patient, the home care provided by GAP “changed everything for me and my family. I was in a place of depression and sadness and the VNS Health team made everything so easy; checking in on me constantly, providing a nurse to come check on my surgery and wounds, providing access to transportation, helping get furniture, medical supplies, food. This team cares so much and doesn’t judge one bit. I love every person on the team and want people to know that the way they care and not only do their jobs, but go beyond and more, is perfection. I would recommend VNS Health to everyone I know. 10 stars!”
Queens
“Professionalism, care, and everything he did.”
A compliment came in for Physical Therapist David Friend from a Queens patient who praised David’s “professionalism, care, and everything he did.” The patient added that their subsequent outpatient physical therapy was more successful because of the progress they made under David’s care.
“I don’t know what I would have done without VNS Health.”
A Hospice patient’s daughter posted a review on our social media channels containing high praise for Licensed Social Worker Adrianna Angiuli, Nurses Berkis Oken and Verlina Sylvester, Veterans Service Specialist Anna Altunyan, and Bereavement Counselor Elizabeth Santana. “I didn’t know what to expect and really needed expert advice navigating what to expect with death,” the daughter wrote. “I love my father and didn’t want him to suffer. The staff at VNS Health, specifically Adrianna A., our wonderful and caring social worker, and Berkis and Verlina, Dad’s AMAZING visiting nurses, helped me understand what Dad was experiencing, and they coached me through my tears and self-doubt. Frankly, I don’t know what I would have done without VNS Health and their caring and empathetic staff… Anna, our Veterans Service Specialist, also coordinated with the VA to ensure that Dad’s VA benefits continued for my stepmom… I am now a passionate advocate for Hospice, and I strongly recommend using VNS Health. I will never be able to repay these dedicated angels for the love and attention they gave Dad.”
“Both aides have shown remarkable professionalism and dedication.”
The mother of a Managed Long Term Care (MLTC) plan member wrote to express “my sincere appreciation for the exceptional care my son receives through your Managed Long Term Care program.” The mother specifically recognized “the outstanding work of his two VNS Health Home Health Aides, Jesmin Infante and Mirella Sailema,” adding, ”both aides have shown remarkable professionalism and dedication.”
“VNS Health is the tops.”
A patient received such wonderful care from Physical Therapist Kent Ye that she took the time to write a note about him. “His personality, caring, and focus on getting me to do more each time, and his patience and understanding when I was having a bad day, is what got me to the point where I now can get around. VNS Health is the tops because of employees like Kent. Please let all your employees know how grateful we are to them for helping us to get better.”
Westchester & Upstate Region
“She made a lasting impact on my father’s recovery.”
A Westchester patient’s daughter wrote in to express her gratitude for Physical Therapist Laura Valedon. “From the very beginning, Laura demonstrated not only exceptional clinical skill, but also remarkable patience, compassion, and dedication,” the daughter noted. “She consistently arrived prepared, maintained clear communication, and tailored each session thoughtfully to meet my father’s specific needs and abilities. Her encouraging attitude and positive energy made a meaningful difference in his motivation and overall outlook during therapy. It’s rare to encounter a health care professional who combines expertise with such heartfelt care. She made a lasting impact on my father’s recovery journey, and we feel fortunate to have had her guidance.”
“I learned many great new core exercises!”
Physical Therapist Marc Goldberg received not one, but two, compliments recently. One patient wanted Marc to know he is “a true asset to the VNS Health organization,” adding that he and his wife “really appreciated” Marc’s care and that “I learned many great new core exercises!” The wife of another patient called to say that Marc did a “wonderful job with my husband and suggested a lot of exercises that will make a big impact on his life.”
Health Plan Member Commendations
“You are truly amazing people!”
A plan member’s sister wrote in to express her deep appreciation for VNS Health’s team members. “The support and kindness shown to my brother have meant so much to our family, more than words can truly express,” she noted. “When his condition became more serious than he expected, it was an incredibly difficult time for him and for all of us. During this challenging period, your staff showed such loving care, genuine compassion, and humility. My brother truly felt their comfort and support. Their professionalism gave him encouragement and strength to keep moving forward. To all of the VNS Health staff and especially, Veterans Benefits Support Coordinator Dayana Laventure, Veterans Service Specialist Anna Altunyan, Licensed Social Worker Sarah Rossen, Nurse Kristen Wong, Vice President of Cultural Market Development Teresa Lin, and Veterans Outreach Liaison Victor Interiano—what a privilege it has been to meet some of you and to speak with others. You are truly amazing people!”
“Very pleasant, empathetic, and helpful.”
A member’s daughter had positive things to say about her interaction with Authorization Coordinator Samantha Jenkins, noting that Samantha: ““was very pleasant, empathetic, and helpful.”
“There are no words that would adequately express our gratitude.”
Sabine Noel, Clinical Evaluation Manager, MLTC Care Coordination, received a letter of praise from the niece of one plan member. “There are no words that would adequately express our gratitude for the excellent care my aunt received,” wrote the niece. “You became our client support, our best advocate, and our sounding board. Although we have never met you in person, you became family. There was never a missed call for help in any way. There was constant communication and understanding. Everything you did for her was seamless.”
“Genuine caring and dedication.”
Another plan member shared her appreciation for Contact Center Agent Lidia Medina, adding that Lidia went “above and beyond” during their phone call. She highlighted Lidia’s “genuine caring and dedication,” noting that Lidia was “patient and listened to me” as she worked to resolve the member’s situation.
“I was treated with courtesy and respect.”
A plan member contacted us about the great customer experience she had with Contact Center Agent Opal Lesmond. The member noted that her issues “were fully resolved” during the original interaction and that she was highly satisfied with the service provided. She added, “I was treated with courtesy and respect by Opal,” and rated her overall experience “a 10 out of 10.”
To read past editions of Letters and Commendations, click here.
