But for our newest team member, Sr. Julia, the “office” looks a little different. Her first day didn’t involve a swivel chair or a cubicle; instead, it required navigating the ancient, winding stone streets and the notoriously steep stairways of Bethlehem.
Hitting the Ground Running
Sr. Julia didn’t spend her first morning shuffling through paperwork. She dove straight into the heart of our mission, heading out for her very first round of “Hospice at Home” patient visits.
She wasn’t alone in this labyrinth, however. Accompanied by Muhammad, one of our seasoned and dedicated nurse volunteers, Sr. Julia had an expert guide to show her the ropes. Beyond just clinical protocol, Muhammad was on hand to share the essential “local knowledge” – like which alleyways offer the best shade and the secret shortcuts that save a few hundred steps in the midday sun.
Compassion in Every Step
The physical demands of nursing in Bethlehem are no joke. Reaching our patients often means a literal workout, climbing countless stone steps to reach homes tucked away in the upper tiers of the city. Yet, as the photos from her first day show:
- The Energy: There wasn’t a hint of first-day nerves.
- The Spirit: Just beaming smiles despite the steep incline.
- The Connection: A natural warmth that felt like she’d been part of the team for years.
Joining the Bethlehem Care Family
t the Bethlehem Care and Hospice Trust, we believe that palliative care is as much about the spirit as it is about medicine. It’s about meeting patients exactly where they are—even if “where they are” is at the top of a grueling flight of stairs.
Seeing the joy and enthusiasm Sr. Julia is already pouring into her rounds confirms what we already suspected: she is a perfect fit for this community. Her arrival marks a new chapter in our ability to provide dignity and comfort to those in need across the city.
We are absolutely thrilled to have her on board. Welcome to the family, Sr. Julia!
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