Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation In Healthcare, a podcast of The NEVER Alone Project

The NEVER Alone Project
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What would you do if the person you loved most in the world was about to die in isolation and you couldn't be with them? Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation in Healthcare is a powerful podcast by Steve Reiter, sharing the deeply personal story of losing his wife, Elizabeth, due to strict isolation policies during the pandemic. Through his experience and those of countless others, Steve highlights the emotional and physical toll of being separated from loved ones during critical medical moments. This show investigates how these policies came to be, the long-term consequences for patients and families, and why love, touch, and advocacy are essential to healing. Featuring interviews with survivors, medical experts, and policymakers, the show explores what went wrong and how to ensure no patient is ever left alone again. With insights from grief and trauma specialists, Every Patient's Right provides tools for healing while advocating for legislation to protect patients' visitation rights. Join Steve on this vital journey to bring change to healthcare and ensure no one is forced to die alone.

  1. 07/11/2025

    Stephen E. Reiter's - The Need for Visitation Rights #17

    Steve E Reiter is interviewed by Steve Reiter. Welcome to "Every Patient's Right." On this episode of Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation in Healthcare, Steve Reiter sits down with his longtime friend, Stephen E. Reiter, to explore the devastating consequences of medical isolation—both from personal heartbreak and systemic failures. Stephen shares the deeply moving story of his wife Mary, whose routine emergency room visit spiraled into weeks of painful isolation, mismanaged care, and ultimately loss. Together, Steve and Stephen reflect on striking parallels in their own experiences, the vital role of patient advocates, and the need for hospital reforms to keep loved ones connected, especially in times of crisis. Their conversation highlights not just the grief and lasting impact of separation, but also the fight for legislative change to ensure every patient's right to have a loved one by their side. Tune in for a powerful episode about love, loss, and the urgent call to end unnecessary medical isolation. Outline: (00:02) "Ending Medical Isolation Podcast" (06:04) Hospital Visit Amid Severe Pain (06:42) "Mary's Painful ER Experience" (11:20) "No Privacy, Mistreatment at Hospital" (14:44) "Denied ICU Visit, Went Anyway" (19:02) Hospital Process Reform Proposal Declined (21:02) "Career Highlights in IT Leadership" (25:10) "Everyone Needs an Advocate" (27:35) "Navigating Grief and Survival" (33:22) Painful Memories and Legal Barriers (34:59) "Final Goodbye to Mary" (38:28) "Mary's Illness and Hospital Stay" (43:27) Love, Family, Faith, and Healing (46:35) "Support the Never Alone Project" About the Guest: Stephen E. Reiter is a skilled medical professional recognized for his expertise in nerve connection procedures. In a challenging case, Stephen worked at Erlanger Hospital—the largest teaching hospital in the region—where he was faced with a patient suffering from severe pain, rated between 8 and 10. Despite the crowded conditions brought on by the COVID pandemic, Stephen remained dedicated and focused, assuring that his surgical techniques would provide the relief the patient desperately needed. Through his commitment and brilliant medical work, Stephen brought hope and comfort to both the patient and her loved ones during a difficult time. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    48 min

  2. 06/24/2025

    Dr Howard Cohn - Restoring Health After Isolation #16

    In this episode of Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation in Healthcare, host Steve Reiter welcomes Dr. Howard Cohn of the Cohn Health Institute to share insights on Neuro Emotional Technique (NET)—a groundbreaking method for healing emotional trauma, especially in the wake of medical isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, they dive into how NET uses muscle testing and principles from traditional Chinese medicine to uncover and resolve the deep-seated emotional roots of physical symptoms. Dr. Cohn explains the science behind NET, shares powerful stories of transformation from his decades of practice, and discusses its rising acceptance among both alternative and mainstream practitioners. Whether you've experienced healthcare trauma yourself or work with those who have, this episode offers fresh hope and real-world strategies for restoring human connection and well-being.   Outline: 06:59 "Pavlov Meets Chinese Medicine Insights" 11:43 Be a Positive Force 17:44 "N.E.T. and the Emotional Triad" 23:49 Vibrational Communication Techniques 30:34 "Unresolved Emotions Lead to Issues" 33:37 Emotional Impact on Gluten Intolerance 38:15 Perception Over Historical Fact 46:35 "Exploring Total Body Modification Technique" 51:10 "Mind-Body Wellness Resources" 53:51 "Bio Stacking: Innovative Health Techniques" 01:00:27 Universal Health Tip: Reduce Carbs and Oils 01:03:51 Revolutionizing Coffee with Antioxidants About the Guest: Dr. Howard Cohn has always been fascinated by the miracles of the human body. The first time he encountered functional muscle testing—a technique he would later help revolutionize—he recalls being both amazed and skeptical. It was hard for him to envision that something so seemingly simple could yield such powerful results. But as he delved deeper, he understood the profound philosophy behind it: the body is "simply intricate and intricately simple." As the founder of all functional muscle testing, Dr. Cohn built his approach on the idea that, while we often complicate healing with conscious thought, the subconscious mind and body communicate in straightforward, reactionary ways. By harnessing this natural connection, Dr. Cohn's techniques help people uncover and address the root causes of their physical and emotional issues. Driven by his belief that "your mind and your body are the same thing," Dr. Cohn's work continues to transform lives and expand the frontiers of holistic healing. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    1h 8m

  3. 06/10/2025

    Gail Macrae - A Nurse's Journey to Advocacy and Reform #15

    Gail Macrae is interviewed by Steve Reiter. Welcome to "Every Patient's Right." In this episode of Every Patient's Right, host Steve Reiter interviews Gail Macrae, a former nurse from Kaiser Permanente in Santa Rosa, California. Gail shares her firsthand experience on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing how strict hospital isolation protocols negatively impacted patients, families, and healthcare workers alike. She discusses the moral dilemmas and trauma nurses faced and explains why she ultimately left hospital medicine to advocate for ethical care and legal reforms. Together, Steve and Gail examine the essential role of family presence in healing and call for the restoration of humanity and patient rights in our healthcare system. Outline: (00:02) Balancing Grad School and Work (11:12) Post-Recovery Vaccine Concerns (13:14) Unprecedented Summer Hospital Crowds (17:24) Grad School Data Analysis Insight (22:51) Fighting Legal Injustices for Families (28:16) Family's Role in Patient Care (37:26) Empathy and Ethics in Crisis (42:35) Revisiting Unethical Hospital Protocols (48:54) Moral Injury in Healthcare Journey (52:17) Sabotaged: Clinician's Setback Tale (01:00:11) Peer Acceptance Limits Self-Identity (01:01:33) Rethinking Educational and Leadership Norms (01:07:23) "Pursue Dreams for True Happiness"     About the Guest: Gail Macrae began her nursing career as a new graduate at Sutter Health, one of the largest hospital organizations in the United States, in 2013. Driven by a passion for both clinical care and teaching, she then expanded her horizons internationally, spending a year at a teaching hospital in Africa. There, she balanced providing primary care with instructing aspiring Tanzanian nurses, gaining invaluable global experience. Returning to the U.S., Gail joined Kaiser Permanente in 2015, further solidifying her expertise in hospital medicine. By the time the pandemic began, she had accumulated seven to eight years of hands-on experience, earning her reputation as an expert nurse. Despite some unique experiences abroad, Gail sees her journey as grounded in the core values and challenges of hospital nursing. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    1h 10m

  4. 05/27/2025

    Dr. Susan Heitler - Prescriptions Without Pills: Dr. Susan Approach to Emotional Healing #14

    Steve Reiter interviews Dr. Susan Heitler. Welcome to "Every Patient's" the p" podcast from the Never Alone Project, dedicated to ending isolation in healthcare and restoring vital human connections. In this episode, host Steve Reiter talks with Dr. Susan Heitler, a clinical psychologist and author of "Prescriptions Without Pills," about the emotional challenges caused by medical isolation, particularly during events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Heitler shares practical, non-medication strategies for managing grief, depression, anger, and anxiety, drawing from both her clinical expertise and personal experience. Together, they discuss the importance of support, share powerful techniques for emotional healing, and highlight how reconnecting with others can foster resilience and well-being. If you or someone you know is navigating loss, stress, or isolation, this episode offers hope and actionable steps to find relief and community. Outline: (00:02) "Overcoming Negative Emotions" (06:5") Access and Isolation During Pandemic (11:13) Shiva: Mourning and Companionship Ritual (17:45) Healing from Grief and Neglect (24:35) Emotion Code vs. PTSD Healing (28:11) Energy Shift Experiment (36:21) Healing Insights from Sarah'sSarah's Code (41:39) Comparing Past and Present Relationships (47:52) "Anxiet" Loop and Subconscious Triggers" (49:3") Red Dress: Memories and Anger   About the Guest: Dr. Susan Heitler is a renowned psychologist who has dedicated her career to exploring the origins of negative emotions and helping people effectively overcome them. Inspired by the idea that anger, depression, and anxiety arise when we hit "bumps" or pr" problems in life, Dr. Heitler believes our responses to these challenges determine whether we fall into destructive emotional habits or find our way back to happiness. Rejecting a reliance on medication as the only solution, she developed a practical approach—detailed in her popular books—for solving problems directly. By providing "recipe for breaking out of negative states and tackling issues head-on, Dr. Heitler empowers individuals to restore their well-being and regain control of their emotional lives. Her compassionate, solution-focused approach has offered hope and practical tools to countless individuals seeking to transform emotional struggles into personal growth. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every atientPatient's Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lo"t his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    1h 3m

  5. 05/13/2025

    KC Netzke - When Families Are Kept Apart #13

    Welcome to another episode of Every Patient's Right, the podcast from the Never Alone Project, where we explore the real-life impact of medical isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and the urgent need for compassionate care policies. In this heartfelt conversation, host Steve Reiter sits down with KC Netzke, who shares the moving story of her father, Carroll Netzke—a Minnesota farm boy, a devoted family man, and someone who, like many others, spent his last days isolated in a hospital room due to strict no-visitor policies. KC takes us through the ripple effects of being separated from a loved one in their most vulnerable moments, the struggles her family faced in trying to communicate with hospital staff, and the emotional aftermath of not being able to say goodbye as a family. Her reflections on her father's character, their cherished family memories, and the deeply felt loss give a personal face to a problem that affected thousands. Join us as we talk about what was lost during pandemic-era patient isolation, the flaws in hospital visitation policies, and why it's vital to advocate for legislation that ensures no one has to die alone. Outline: (00:02) Ending Isolation in Healthcare (05:39) "Random Testing During Holidays" (08:29) Media Confusion in Early 2020 (13:02) Chaos and Concern Over Dad's Care (14:12) Support the Never Alone Project (18:30) "Pandemic Struggles and Family Separation" (20:54 "Uncertain Recognition in Final Moments" (26:09) Colorado Legislation for Pandemic Preparedness (27:40) "Intimate Knowledge of Loved Ones" (30:58) "Dad's Sudden Exits"   About the Guest:  KC Netzke's story is rooted in the heartland of Minnesota, where they were shaped by their father's independent and inventive spirit. As one of ten siblings on a farm, KC's dad became resourceful out of necessity—turning discarded items into treasures and making do with limited resources. Known by everyone in their small town for his knack for finding value where others saw waste, KC's father instilled a sense of resilience, creativity, and self-reliance. Growing up in a close-knit community, KC carries forward these values, connecting deeply with the ingenuity and determination of their family's rural roots. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    33 min

  6. 04/29/2025

    Laura Jensen - A Family's Grief from Forced Hospital Separation #12

    Laura Jensen is interviewed by Steve Reiter.  Welcome to "Every Patient's Right" by the Never Alone Project. On today's Every Patient's Right episode, host Steve Reiter sits down with Laura Jensen for a powerful and deeply personal conversation. Laura shares the heart-wrenching story of her husband, Gary, a vibrant and larger-than-life man who passed away after weeks in the hospital during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. As Laura recounts her family's experience—how her requests to be with Gary were repeatedly denied and how hospital isolation policies kept them apart during his most vulnerable days—we explore the dire consequences of forced medical isolation. Laura's story is filled with love, loss, and frustration, but also important lessons and calls for change. Together, Steve and Laura dig into why human connection is essential in healing, how current policies failed patients and families, and what needs to happen so that no one is ever forced to face critical illness alone. This episode is a testament to the resilience of families and a reminder of what's at stake as we fight to end isolation in healthcare. Outline: (00:02) Finding Urgent Care Amid Crisis (04:46) Midnight Emergency: A Quick Decision (07:30) Hospitalization and Slow Recovery Hope (11:50) Lung Complications and Oxygen Struggles (15:12) Struggles with Health and Separation (24:32) COVID Hospital Visit Restrictions (28:30) Witnessing a Loved One's Decline (33:22) Antibiotic Response Uncertainty (39:58) Unanswered Questions About His Death (42:09) Regrets About Being More Vocal (47:06) "Missing Him: A Proud Moment" (49:20) Compassionate Policy Making Matters About the Guest:  Laura Jensen's story begins with a shared household ordeal: a severe bout of flu that struck her family one after the other. Laura was the first to fall ill, soon followed by her daughter, and together they quarantined themselves upstairs, battling waves of exhaustion. Her husband was the last to get sick, but his illness progressed quickly, affecting his lungs just days after symptoms began. Laura's sense of responsibility and care kept them together as each family member succumbed, even as the fatigue dragged on. Through it all, Laura's resilience and dedication shone as she navigated her family through a challenging time with compassion and unity. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    52 min

  7. 04/15/2025

    Scott Schara – A Father's Fight to End Forced Medical Isolation #11

    Steve Reiter speaks with Scott Schara, whose daughter, Grace, born with Down syndrome, tragically passed away in October 2021 following forced medical isolation during a hospital stay. Scott shares Grace's joyful spirit, how their family navigated hospital protocols, and how his advocacy seeks to protect others from experiencing the same injustice. Together, they discuss the limits of patient rights, the shortcomings of the ADA, and the importance of love and humanity in healthcare. Outline: 00:00 April Fool's Day Memories 03:26 "Unexpected Joy in Grace's Birth" 07:18 Welcoming Parenthood and Down Syndrome 11:34 "Negligence Led to Grace's Death" 16:18 Hospital Negotiation and Disability Lawsuit 17:14 ADA Critique: "Dog and Pony Show" 22:41 Pulse Oximeter Discrepancy Dispute 26:34 "Morning Hospital Incident with Grace" 30:25 Caution: Respiratory Risks with Medication 34:02 Unanswered Questions After Hospital Death 38:02 Uncovering Hospital Malpractice 38:58 Hospital Refuses Meeting After Fatality 42:31 Judgment Against Unwanted DNR Order 46:03 "Grace's Legacy of Love" 50:52 "Loving the Unlovable" 52:01 "Embracing Joy and Connection"   About The Guest: Scott Schara is a passionate advocate for patient rights and disability justice. After losing his 19-year-old daughter, Grace, to questionable hospital practices during forced medical isolation in October 2021, Scott became deeply involved in legislative and educational efforts to prevent similar tragedies. He shares Grace's story nationwide in Wisconsin to champion "No Patient Left Alone" legislation and the importance of compassion in healthcare. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    54 min

  8. 04/02/2025

    Chelsey Hellwege & Calley Riste - A Family's Struggle with Isolation #10

    Chelsey Hellwege and Calley Riste are interviewed by Steve Reiter.  Welcome to "Every Patient's Right" by the Never Alone Project. In this episode, sisters Chelsey Hellwege and Calley Ristee share the heartbreaking experience of losing their father, Driggs Jessup, to COVID-19 in September 2021. They recount the isolation he faced in the hospital, despite being a fit and active community figure known for his work as a pastor and school resource officer. Chelsey and Calley discuss the difficulties of advocating for their father's care and dealing with the healthcare system while feeling helpless and shut out. Tune in as we explore their story to highlight the need for compassionate care in hospitals and work towards preventing such isolation in the future. Outline: (00:03) "Beloved Father and 'RoboCop'" (04:36) False Assurances, Medical Emergency Discovery (07:23) Plea for Dad's Hospital Visitation (11:25) Flu Shot Dilemma for Sick Patient (13:49) Hospital Visit Connections (19:10) Dismissed Concerns on Ivermectin (20:42) Denied Farewell in Final Moments (23:08) "No Ventilation Without Family Present" (27:40) Activism After Father's Death (32:33) Federal Support for Hospital Decisions (36:04) Distrust in Politicized Medical Practices (37:50) "My Dad: A Beloved Presence" About the Guest:  Chelsey Hellwege was distressed when she noticed something was amiss with a loved one, despite assurances that everything was fine. Concerned and proactive, Chelsey decided to visit him, only to find his condition worse than she expected. Sensing the urgency, she quickly obtained a pulse oximeter, which revealed alarmingly low readings. Understanding the seriousness of the situation, Chelsey contacted a doctor friend for advice, who recommended immediate emergency assistance. Her responsiveness and decisive actions reflect her deep concern and commitment to those around her in times of need. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation that began in March 2020, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery.  Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at neveraloneproject.org

    42 min
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What would you do if the person you loved most in the world was about to die in isolation and you couldn't be with them? Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation in Healthcare is a powerful podcast by Steve Reiter, sharing the deeply personal story of losing his wife, Elizabeth, due to strict isolation policies during the pandemic. Through his experience and those of countless others, Steve highlights the emotional and physical toll of being separated from loved ones during critical medical moments. This show investigates how these policies came to be, the long-term consequences for patients and families, and why love, touch, and advocacy are essential to healing. Featuring interviews with survivors, medical experts, and policymakers, the show explores what went wrong and how to ensure no patient is ever left alone again. With insights from grief and trauma specialists, Every Patient's Right provides tools for healing while advocating for legislation to protect patients' visitation rights. Join Steve on this vital journey to bring change to healthcare and ensure no one is forced to die alone.

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