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. May 5

    Teresa Olivieri - No Answers, No Access: When the Medical System Fails #23

    She wasn't just a wife—she was a hospital administrator. And still, they wouldn't let her see her husband before he died. Welcome to "Every Patient's Right (TNAP)." In today's episode, Steve sits down with Teresa Olivieri, a former hospital administrator whose husband, Kurt, was left isolated during his final days in the hospital. Despite her insider knowledge, Teresa Olivieri was denied visits, left in the dark about critical medical decisions, and only learned about Kurt's transfer through the county sheriff. Her story exposes the deep harm caused by patient isolation and failed communication. Join us as Teresa Olivieri recounts her heartbreaking experience and calls for vital legislation to protect every patient's right to have a loved one by their side. Outline: (00:04) Podcast introduction and guest story (06:35) Rushing to see Kurt (10:10) Requesting an aftercare meeting (12:07) Addressing hospital policy gaps (16:04) Advocating for patient support (19:37) Discussing Kurt's medical care (22:37) Discussing end-of-life experiences (24:54) Remembering Kurt's guidance (27:49) Ending isolation in healthcare About the Guest: Teresa Olivieri lives with her family near Otter Tail Lake in Minnesota's scenic lake country. In September, she experienced firsthand the challenges of the healthcare system when her loved one was admitted to the hospital in Fergus Falls after a long and chaotic emergency room visit. After his admission, Teresa was separated from him and kept informed only through brief daily calls with his physician, always hoping for a chance to see him. Teresa's story reflects her resilience and deep devotion to family despite difficult circumstances. 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. Steve's dedication to this cause highlights his commitment to advocating humane treatment in healthcare settings. Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    28 min

  2. Apr 21

    Dr. Richard Leiter & Dr. Samantha Gelfand - Courageous Doctors Who Spoke Out Against Isolation #22

    Dr. Richard Leiter and Dr. Samantha Gelfand were among the few doctors to publicly speak out about the dangers of hospital isolation in 2020. In January 2021, they wrote an OpEd for StatNews titled, "Even during a pandemic, hospitals must make family visits and communication the standard of care." In this episode, host Steve Reiter sits down with Dr. Leiter and Dr. Gelfand, palliative care physicians who witnessed the devastating impact of hospital isolation policies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing from their experiences in Boston's COVID ICUs, they share moving stories about families separated at their loved ones' bedsides, the moral and ethical challenges clinicians faced, and how virtual tools like iPads helped—but couldn't fully replace—human connection. Tune in for an honest conversation about how we must learn from the past, restore patient dignity, and make sure no one ever faces medical isolation alone again. Outline: (00:02) Palliative Care in COVID ICUs (03:59) Supporting Families Remotely (07:33) Visitor Policies and Advocacy Concerns (11:17) "Heartbreak Amid Pandemic Restrictions" (17:18) Resilience in Palliative Care Teams (21:31) Defining "End of Life" Ambiguity (24:08) "Support Patient Visitation Rights" (25:56) Hospital Chaplain Access Inequity Solved (30:19) Family Role in Patient Care (35:12) Healing Together Through Collaboration (37:56) "Human Connection in Healthcare" (40:45) Shifting Perspectives During Crisis (44:25) Reopening Benchmarks and Transparency About the Guest:  Dr. Samantha Gelfand understood the necessity of strict visitor restrictions in hospitals, prioritizing safety above all else. As time passed, however, she witnessed firsthand the growing moral distress among her colleagues and trainees, including Ricky and Mai, as they grappled with balancing evolving safety protocols, vaccination status, and the essential human need for connection. Dr. Gelfand became a thoughtful advocate for patient rights, emphasizing the importance of family support during illness while navigating the complexities and ethical dilemmas posed by the pandemic. Dr. Richard Leiter is a dedicated physician specializing in palliative care, a medical field focused on helping patients and their families navigate the challenges of serious illness. As part of an interdisciplinary palliative care team in Boston, Dr. Leiter played a vital role during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when hospital ICUs were transformed to meet the crisis. In March 2020, he and his colleagues faced unique challenges caring for intubated, sedated patients who couldn't communicate directly. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Leiter committed himself to symptom management, guiding families through difficult medical decisions, and providing compassionate support during an unprecedented 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

    47 min

  3. Apr 14

    Catherine Bonnet - A Wife Locked Out and a Husband Lost to Medical Isolation #21

    He called her one last time before they took his phone. "I love you," he said. "Get better. I'll find a way in." Welcome to "Every Patient's Right (TNAP)." In this episode, we bring you the powerful story of Catherine Bonnet, whose husband Ian was suddenly hospitalized with COVID in September 2021. Like so many families during the pandemic, Catherine was forced to advocate from outside the hospital doors—navigating limited information, denied visitation, and impossible decisions, all while her husband faced his toughest battle alone. Through Catherine's firsthand account, we see the painful realities of restricted hospital access and what is truly lost when families are separated from loved ones in critical moments. Her story is both a heartbreaking cautionary tale and a call to action for compassionate, patient-centered care. Join us as we explore the urgent need to keep patients and families connected, no matter the circumstances. Outline: (00:01) Going to urgent care (07:46) Dealing with medication side effects (20:18) Feeling powerless during intubation (23:53) Waiting for medical updates (30:23) Difficult updates about a loved one (32:05) Advocating for patient support (41:34) Preparing for palliative care planning (44:42) Visiting husband in Covid ICU (48:25) Processing difficult medical possibilities (53:13) Sharing life-changing news with family (01:01:06) Possible remdesivir side effects (01:06:26) Coping with loss and resilience   About the Guest: Catherine Bonnet is known for her attentive and compassionate nature. When her loved one began feeling unwell—thinking it was just a cold and continuing with daily routines—Catherine remained observant and concerned, as sickness was rare for him. Recognizing the approaching holiday weekend and the importance of timely care, she suggested a visit to urgent care if he didn't improve by Friday. True to her caring instincts, Catherine accompanied him the next morning, ready to support him through uncertainty. Their trip revealed the seriousness of his condition, as he struggled upon arrival and was not immediately admitted. Catherine's story highlights her profound sense of responsibility and dedication to those she cares for, especially in difficult times. 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. Steve's dedication to this cause highlights his commitment to advocating humane treatment in healthcare settings. Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    1h 15m

  4. Mar 24

    Dr. Wes Ely - The Harm of Isolation in the ICU #20

    Dr. Wes Ely is a renowned ICU physician and researcher. In this episode, host Steve Reiter talks with Dr. Ely about the hidden harms of ICU isolation, over-sedation, the dangers of post-intensive care syndrome (PICS), what most doctors have wrong about ICU treatment, and the critical need for family presence at the bedside. Together, they explore real patient stories—highlighting how isolation policies can cause lasting cognitive and emotional damage, as well as the hope and healing that come from human connection. You'll hear about the fight for more compassionate, human-centered care and why every patient deserves to have a loved one by their side. If you or someone you love has felt the effects of medical isolation, this episode offers vital insight and hope for change. Outline: (00:00) "Impact of Isolation on Patients" (05:46) "Devastating MRI Results Revealed" (13:29) "Breaking Rules for Humanity" (14:26) "The Power of Loved Ones" (17:28) "The Power of Presence" (22:05) "Supporting ICU Survivors' Recovery" (24:30) "Teaching Humanism in Medicine" (29:57) "Revolutionizing Critical Care Practices" (32:04) "Post-Intensive Care Syndrome Impact" (35:01) Walking Patients on Ventilators (39:12) Speaking Out for Patient Recovery (43:51) "Wellness, Recovery, and Long COVID" (50:33) "Hope, Humanity, and Healing" (52:42) "Together Against Patient Suffering"   About the Guest:  Dr. Wes Ely is a world-renowned physician and researcher whose work centers on the human stories found within intensive care medicine. In his book Every Deep Drawn Breath, Ely recounts the story of Sarah, one of his early patients from the late 1990s. Sarah, a pioneering woman engineer at AT&T Ma Bell, developed a severe pneumonia that led to an extended stay in the ICU and time on a ventilator. Though her condition was typical for the ICU, its aftermath was anything but: she suffered profound cognitive impairment that left her struggling to reclaim her former life. Ely's experience with Sarah and others like her has shaped his passion for improving the quality of care and outcomes for critically ill patients, highlighting the personal toll of illness and the importance of compassionate treatment.   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

    53 min

  5. Mar 10

    Jenna Hadley Johnsen — "I Trust You": A Nurse, a Daughter, and a Father Lost to Medical Isolation #19

    Jenna Hadley Johnsen is interviewed by Steve Reiter.  Welcome to "Every Patient's Right (TNAP)." In this episode, host Steve Reiter is joined by Jenna Hadley Johnsen, a seasoned nurse and devoted daughter, who shares her family's harrowing journey during the pandemic. When both parents were hospitalized, Jenna Hadley Johnsen was forced to advocate from afar, fighting protocols that shut her out as her father's condition worsened and her mother struggled to recover. Through Jenna Hadley Johnsen's perspective, you'll hear how restricted access, staff shortages, and rigid hospital policies cost precious opportunities for life-saving advocacy—and why presence at the bedside is a basic patient right. This is a story of loss, resilience, and the call for real change, ensuring that no patient ever has to face critical illness alone. Outline: (00:01) Caring for family during illness (09:11) Managing a family health crisis (11:08) Feeling powerless during a transfer (19:45) Importance of human connection in care (22:15) Mom's ICU care and treatment (30:16) A father's final moments (40:46) Struggles with ventilator treatment (43:40) Denied treatment and vaccine stigma (48:11) Caring for mom after rehab (01:05:02) Dad's ventilator issues (01:11:02) Dad rescues woman after accident (01:19:42) Losing my dad unexpectedly (01:23:14) Medical care and untreated sepsis (01:32:21) Remembering Jim Hadley   About the Guest: Jenna Hadley Johnson is a dedicated mother and nurse whose personal experience with the delta wave of COVID-19 in September 2021 shaped her perspective on the pandemic. When her daughter brought the virus home from school, Jenna's instinct to closely care for her sick children led her to sleep beside them at night, monitoring their health. As a result, Jenna contracted COVID-19 herself, enduring a particularly brutal case that challenged the notion that it was "just another flu." Her husband and father-in-law remained healthy despite close contact, highlighting how differently the virus impacted individuals. Jenna's story reflects her unwavering commitment to her family and her profession, as well as her unique insights into the varied toll of COVID-19.   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. Steve's dedication to this cause highlights his commitment to advocating humane treatment in healthcare settings. Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at:  neveraloneproject.org

    1h 35m

  6. Feb 26

    Dr. Mary Frances O'Connor - The Science and Healing of Loss #18

    Dr. Mary Frances is interviewed by Steve Reiter. Welcome to Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation in Healthcare from the Never Alone Project. In this episode, host Steve Reiter talks with Dr. Mary Frances O'Connor, renowned clinical psychologist and author of "The Grieving Brain" and "The Grieving Body." Together, they explore the science behind grief—how it affects both our minds and bodies—and the real dangers of medical isolation, especially after losing a loved one. You'll hear about the outdated misconceptions around grief, practical strategies for coping and healing, and the urgent need for better support in healthcare settings. Dr. O'Connor shares powerful insights from her research, discussing brain fog, elevated physical health risks, and what really helps when grief feels overwhelming or prolonged. Listen in for a compassionate, actionable discussion about supporting yourself and others through loss, and why restoring human connection in healthcare matters now more than ever. Outline: (00:02) Cortisol, Grief, and Being Stuck (03:42) Grief Roots in Love (09:29) "Versatile Coping Strategies Toolkit" (13:03) Grieving's Impact on the Body (15:02) "Prioritizing Health During Grief" (18:09) Grief's Cardiovascular Impact (22:13) Improving Sleep Through Behavior (25:10) Mental Work in the Background (28:01) "Support the Never Alone Project" (34:07) Overcoming Grief and "What Ifs" (36:19) Proactive Truth Amid Pain (39:59) "Grief, Loss, and Lessons Learned" (46:05) "Psychedelics in Therapy Context" (47:44) Retelling Painful Stories Healing (52:48) Ending Isolation in Healthcare About the Guest: Dr. Mary Frances O'Connor is a renowned expert in the science of grief, whose work weaves together the intricate threads of love, bonding, and loss. Drawing on her deep understanding of human relationships, Dr. O'Connor explores how our implicit belief in the enduring presence of loved ones shapes the way we live and cope with absence. Through both research and compassionate insight, she helps others see that beneath grief lies the powerful foundation of connection—reminding us that even as we go about our daily lives, the bond with those we love guides and supports us, and their absence touches every aspect of our experience. 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

  7. 07/11/2025

    Stephen E. Reiter - 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

  8. 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
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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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