Attitude of Gratitude

We reached out to team members across the system with the simple question – what are you thankful for this holiday season?

My dog, Ralph. He still has the spirit of a puppy in a 109-pound, 7-year-old body. Every day he greets us at the door with so much enthusiasm and love that it’s hard not to smile. He reminds us to get outside and take a breath of fresh air, and shows patience when my little ones climb all over him. Everyone deserves a loyal pal!

Krista Dolan, Project Manager, ITS Project Management Office (pictured above and on cover)

For the Lord giving me strength every day and protecting us, especially during the pandemic. I am thankful for family, friends and my job.

Marco Herrera, Environmental Service Aide, Cape Cod Hospital

I am thankful to God for the ability to run, play baseball, ski, bike and experience the outdoors as I have for the last 60 years of my life—with the hope of many more. I am thankful for my wife, son, stepdaughter, grandson, sisters, mother-in-law, dog and a small bevy of good friends whom I choose to spend my time with. I am especially thankful for my coworkers who tolerate me and all my idiosyncrasies.

Mitch Summey, Pharmacist, CCHC Retail Pharmacy

For waking up every morning with the feeling of joy and gratitude my family and I are healthy. At the end of the day, being healthy and being able to enjoy all the “little” things in life is the utmost importance to me. I am also very thankful for every moment I get to spend in nature as nature is a source of positive healing energy for me.

Martina LaRhette, RN, Falmouth Hospital OR

I’m grateful that I have the opportunity to see the ocean every day on my drive to work. Living on Cape Cod, my family life and my work are tied to the ocean. There is a peace and serenity that comes with that …

Elizabeth Dunton, Vice President of Medical Affiliates of Cape Cod

My children. Henrik, Claire and Genevieve are so special. Their love, kindness, intelligence, curiosity and goodness are inspirational to me. With my wife, Adrianna, they form the foundation from which I draw strength daily. I’d be lost without them.


Ethan Glazener, MD, radiation oncologist for Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital

For family, including my two beautiful grandchildren (a 1-year old, and a 2-year old, with a third on the way!) They bring me such joy, and it’s wonderful seeing my kids being the loving, caring parents that they are.

Julie Drake, Executive Director of Rehabilitation Services

The life lessons I have learned from my grandparents; they’ve always pointed me in the right direction and have never let me down.

Darijan Suton, Wellness Program Manager

My Frameo picture frame. Family and friends contribute to the picture collection that changes every few minutes allowing for a look back at wonderful memories or new updates on their lives.

Colleen Pino, Executive Director, JML Care Center

Neurologists of Cape Cod Team

Completing my LPN to RN program, so I can continue to grow in my practice.

Nicole Lewis, LPN, MACC Neurology Practice

The health of my friends and family.

Haley Abaspour Penison, Scheduling Access Specialist, MACC Neurology Practice

My wonderful family. Life is all about family.

Diana Mitchell, Scheduling Access Specialist, MACC Neurology Practice

I am grateful to have a home here on Cape Cod, after losing everything in Hurricane Ian.

Laurie Kjoller, LICSW, MACC Neurology Practice

I am thankful for my 90-year old grandmother being able to celebrate another holiday. She was recently sick so we feel fortunate to be able to play to another card game of Phase 10!

Kellie Oliveira, Director of Primary Care and Patient Access, Medical Affiliates of Cape Cod

For my cottage home. It’s small and cozy and all that I need. After living in a condo for over a decade and a half, I love the quietness of my home. It is my retreat after a long day, where I can breathe and relax. I am thankful for the yard as well where I can garden (flowers, fruits and vegetables), or just sit and enjoy a fire.

Jill Sanger, Executive Chef, Cape Cod Hospital

Very honestly, I am truly thankful for the wonderful healthcare system we have on Cape Cod. This year, many family members and friends (on and off-Cape and across the country) have or are still battling serious health issues. Not all of them have access to such an exceptional team of people or facilities close to home as we do. It really is a blessing.

Kristin Dunham, Planned Giving Assistant, Cape Cod Healthcare Foundation

I am so grateful for all the fun memories I am making with my girls Lauren and Grace, but also glad I have surrounded myself with so many wonderful people! The close friends and family that are always there to help us and I am very grateful to all my amazing night shift co-workers who watch out for me. Happy Holiday season, everyone!!


Paul Hines, Security Officer, Cape Cod Hospital

For my family. I am the youngest of 12 kids. My father and mother brought us up to be there for one another. In his words: FAMILY FIRST.

Deirdre O’Hearn, CMA, Pain Management, Cape Cod Hospital

My amazing kids AJ and Danielle, my adorable grandson Jaxson and a new granddaughter due to arrive mid-February. I am grateful I have a job that I love, a nice home and the best family and friends around!

Christine Gould, Administrative Assistant, Lung Cancer Screening Program Coordinator, Department of Radiology, Cape Cod Hospital

I am grateful for all the good things in my life and being able to share it with my family and friends.

Katie Goulart, Director, Patient Access