My Ethos Family: Providing Extraordinary Support Through The Most Tragic of Times
September 13, 2022
Nearly twelve years ago, I became a part of the Ethos team, then known as IVG. I came from an equine background but quickly fell in love with the small animal atmosphere and the comradery of my Client Care team. I have had countless memorable moments in my years with Ethos, but one experience stands out in my reminiscence. It was not so much a single incident but a culmination of selfless acts in response to a personal tragedy.
Three days short of my one-year anniversary with Mass Vet Referral Hospital, my mother passed away of brain cancer after a long five-year battle. She was only 52-years-old. Knowing this was the inevitable outcome of her diagnosis did little to soften the blow of losing my mother. I texted my supervisor that Sunday morning to let them know she had passed away as I could not bring myself to call and speak the words. I was immediately met with condolences and the courtesy of being given the following week off but the support from my team and the company went far beyond my expectations over the follow days. That day was the start of the lengthy process of funeral arrangements. Despite my mother organizing and planning as much as she could prior to passing, aftercare is a daunting process. My family’s doleful spirts were lifted slightly the following morning when we received a delivery from Panera with an array of breakfast foods and coffee with a heartfelt note from my Client Care team. As though this gesture was not enough, the following afternoon we received a delivery of pasta, meatballs, and salad from a local Italian restaurant, all provided by my generous and caring Mass Vet family.
My Mother’s wake occurred that Wednesday evening. Among the many beautiful flower arrangements was a large bouquet addressed from my Client Care team. Throughout the evening we had numerous friends and family come and pay their respects. Two of my supervisors attended the wake and brought with them the condolences and support of everyone at Mass Vet. I returned to work the following week. Getting back to my routine was helpful in allowing me to feel normal again. Our work can be a sad place at times, but I felt confident I could get through knowing everyone had been there for me. Those kind gestures of my colleagues are something I will never forget.
As though everything I received during this time was not enough, weeks later I received a letter in the mail from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The letter was informing me that a donation had been made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Research Fund by Ethos Veterinary Health in my mother’s name. My Mass Vet family truly went above and beyond to show me just how much I meant to my team and the hospital, supporting myself and my family during our darkest time. I have continued to feel the same consideration, comradery and support all these years later. Through both my happy and challenging times, Ethos and my Mass Vet family have always been there for me and for that I am eternally grateful.
Written by: Holly Servizio, Accounts Receivable Specialist