Gloria's 20-Year Journey with NELC

“Yes, you want the best care. But you need compassion, you need kindness, you need empathy. I found that with you guys.”  

That’s how long-term New England Life Care patient Gloria Laverriere describes her experience with NELC.  

Gloria was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at age 14 after years of symptoms. With limited treatment options available to her, she underwent surgery to remove a substantial portion of her intestinal tract. As symptoms persisted, she had several more operations, continuing to remove pieces of her intestinal tract, ultimately leaving her with short bowel syndrome.  

Following several surgeries, Gloria was put on Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) to support her needs and allow her digestive system to heal. In 2001, she learned she would need an ileostomy and became fully dependent on intravenous nutrition. It was during this time that she began receiving treatment with New England Life Care. 

Treatment went smoothly, and her condition remained stable until 2019, when she was diagnosed with Stage IV Ocular Melanoma. This diagnosis added a new layer of complications for Gloria, but despite the setback, she stayed extraordinarily positive. She attributes this resilience to a few things: her faith, her family, and the continued support from her doctors and NELC team. 

Gloria spoke about the bond she developed with her dietitian, Zakk Castonguay, who offered an uplifting and comforting presence during a challenging time.  

“His passion for his job showed,” says Gloria.  

She reflected on the small ways that Zakk was able to make this otherwise burdensome experience more manageable. His role went beyond just supporting her dietary and TPN needs. He helped her navigate insurance roadblocks, listened to her concerns, and made her laugh on her darkest days. 

Trust seems to go both ways. For Zakk, Gloria’s story is a reminder of what makes NELC’s model so special. 

“New England Life Care offers a unique opportunity for both patients and clinicians, ensuring continuity of care by providing high-quality care in the home or ambulatory setting while bridging the gap between patients, care across multiple member hospitals, and home care agencies,” he says.  

This continuity of care is what made it possible for Zakk to build a rapport with Gloria. The complexity of meeting new providers and re-reviewing past medical history can be daunting and burdensome for patients, but NELC remains a constant.  

Working together weekly for years has built a level of trust and understanding that Zakk calls invaluable. He believes shared decision-making is imperative to a patient’s success, and says Gloria exemplifies this with her uplifting spirit and can-do attitude, always ready to take on the next challenge. 

Family and faith have also been key factors in keeping Gloria’s spirits high. "My husband, my kids, the grandkids – they’re my inspiration. A lot to live for,” she says. 

When asked to offer advice to other TPN patients, Gloria encouraged others to keep a positive attitude and focus on loved ones. 

 She added, “If you find yourself needing intravenous therapy, use NELC – I can’t say enough how much their care team, Zakk and now Kelly, support my health and personal wellbeing – they are my lifeline!”