Blog

Everyone Needs an Advocate: How One Oversight Could Have Been a Tragedy

Everyone Needs an Advocate: How One Oversight Could Have Been a Tragedy

Kathy was 88 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had already worked closely with Kathy and her family, her three sons, for several years. We had a strong relationship, and when the diagnosis came, we were ready to support her every step of the way.

At the start, Kathy told her doctor she didn’t want surgery. The oncologist reassured her: “We have a range of medications to try first.” That plan gave Kathy comfort and control. Each treatment worked for a time, 3 to 6 months, before her care team moved to the next option.

Through it all, Kathy’s quality of life remained unchanged. She was thriving, despite frequent doctor visits. But then came the last available medication—the final option. And this one changed everything.

Kathy became violently ill within days of starting it. Her doctor asked us to bring her in right away, and from there, we were directed to the hospital. After a full work-up, it was confirmed: the medication itself was the cause.

As we prepared for discharge, I did what I always do as a Care Manager—I reviewed every detail of the discharge instructions. And there it was, in black and white: the same medication that had sent Kathy to the hospital was listed to be continued at home.

I immediately stepped in—speaking with the nurse, the case manager, the charge nurse. The team was apologetic and quick to correct the mistake. But the truth is, this kind of error could have cost Kathy her life.

This is why every aging adult needs an advocate. Someone who knows them, knows their history, and knows what to look for—especially when they’re vulnerable.