Connect

“Every now and then, there comes a story that is worth telling. Speaking to patients who spend countless days in the hospital — it’s clear how much this means to them! This is truly what healthcare is about: taking care of patients in totality.” 

— Adanna C. Akujuo, MD,Surgical Director, Structural Heart Program 

This is the latest installment in our Connect article series “Hope at Work” — showcasing inspiring stories about how our team members contribute to UVA Health’s 10-year strategic plan: “One Future Together Health and Hope for All.”  No matter where you work, you have an opportunity to inspire hope in others. These stories show how:

“I wanted to share an early look at something very special that has been taking shape in the Thoracic Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit,” shares Ashley Wade, BSN, RN, CCRN-K, Nurse Manager, TCV-ICU. Her team has been piloting the “You Are Not Alone” Fellowship Program — an idea that originated from long‑stay, transplant candidate Jason Dent, who wanted to create something uplifting and community‑building for patients spending weeks, or even months, at UVA Health University Medical Center awaiting advanced therapies. 

With Jason’s encouragement, TCV-ICU is hosting small, Friday evening gatherings for these patients — focused on companionship, conversation, and simple activities that bring a sense of connection and normalcy to their stay.  

“Being in the hospital for this long, the days can start to feel the same,” describes Jason. “Having something to look forward to — even something simple — makes a big difference. This program reminds you that you’re not the only one going through this. It brings people together in a way that feels normal. You get to connect with people who understand what it’s like to be here. That kind of connection really matters!” 

So far, the pilot sessions have involved three patients in TCV-ICU, and the response has been “incredibly positive.” That includes a movie night, game night, artwork, and crafts (above) including decorating the pinwheels for the Pinwheel Garden (below) which featured about 1,800 to 2,000 blue and silver pinwheels to celebrate Donate Life Month in April 2026. The garden honors organ, eye, and tissue donors, recipients, and team members — and raises awareness of the more than 3,000 Virginians awaiting transplants. 

“But It’s not just about the activity,” explains Jason. “it’s about having something to focus on besides being a patient. Even a small break in the day can change your mindset. It gives you something positive to hold onto.” 

“Many team members have already reached out offering to help, and I want to thank you — the enthusiasm across so many areas has been wonderful!” Ashley tells her colleagues. “As interest grows, we’re working behind the scenes to make sure the program is safe, structured, and sustainable. This includes coordinating patient schedules, room and equipment logistics, electrical needs, and exploring how we might include Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) patients in future events once the workflow is stable.” 

She adds: “Thank you again for the excitement and support. This program is already making a meaningful difference for our patients, and with your help, it will continue to grow into something truly special!”

“What’s so inspiring about the program is seeing patients take care of each other,” observes MIrnela Byku, MD, PhD, UVA Health cardiologist who specializes in advanced heart failure therapies, and Associate Professor, Cardiovascular Medicine, UVA School of Medicine. “As healthcare workers, we’re used to seeing our team members taking care of patients. But seeing patients bond, interact, and give their lives in the hospital with a severe illness, some color and joy, is truly remarkable! The patients are reminding each other and all of us of what is important and why we do what we do!”  

Kelly Wozneak, MSN, ACNP, made arrangements for patients from 4 West to participate, and helped bring them to activities. “It’s great to see them so happy and distracted from their illnesses and getting to know each other. They now look forward to it and are figuring out how to keep it going as it has become very important to them.” 

“Our unit is fully embracing the program!” hails Hillary Bowen, MSN, RN, ACCNS-AG, CCRN, CEN, Clinical Nurse Leader, TCV-ICU. “Programs like this create a sense of belonging during an otherwise isolating experience and reflect the kind of compassionate, patient-centered care we strive to provide every day.” 

Sums up Jason: “I hope this continues for other patients — it's something that really helps when you’re here for a long time!”