As a Case Manager with the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Cape Cod, Heidi Fratantonio has dedicated her life to a very special calling: providing end-of-life care to patients in their home.
“People need to be in their home, surrounded by the people and things they love,” she said.
For more than 10 years, Heidi has been bringing her compassionate brand of care to Decatur House. “I adore Decatur House – it’s like my second home,” she said. “I really miss it when I’m not there.”
And Decatur House appreciates Heidi. Owner Linda Austin can’t say enough about her. “Heidi makes people comfortable during what can be an uncomfortable time. She understands and knows our residents and gives the staff wonderful advice about managing end of life care. We all have great respect for what Heidi brings to the House.”
Heidi’s dedication to her own serenity promotes a sense of calm and reassurance to her patients, who often are feeling fearful. And though her job is to assist and comfort individuals at the end of their lives, she sometimes witnesses patients rally to where they don’t requires hospice care, creating some unexpected joy for their families.
Her devotion and caring for others bring Heidi her own feeling of fulfillment. “I come home every day with a full heart,” she says.
When not providing hospice care, Heidi “self-treats,” staying physically and emotionally strong through a balanced lifestyle that includes reading, meditation and yoga. These solitary practices are balanced by physical and creative activities.
“I love the beach,” she said. “I like to go rock-hunting, bring them home and paint them.” Her painted mandala rocks, which feature intricate patterns of dots reminiscent of kaleidoscopic designs are her own signature creations. And appropriate to her hospice calling, mandalas symbolize the idea that life is a never-ending spiritual journey, and everything is connected.
Heidi’s lifestyle regimen also includes a physical component that keeps her close to nature. She is an avid cyclist, and enjoys biking through natural settings. Her favorite route is the scenic Shining Sea Bikeway. “I drive to our [VNA] office in Falmouth,” she explains, “then bike to Woods Hole and back, about 14 miles.”
Heidi shares her West Barnstable home with her 18-year-old son, Benjamin, and her beloved “fur-babies,” a pair of Maltese terrier-poodle mix pooches. She has two adult children and a 4-year-old granddaughter, Zoey. Heidi’s mother lives in Dennis.
Thank you for the time and care you provide to our residents Heidi!
By Maureen “Mo” Boyce, Activities Coordinator