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