A valet became a key source of support for cancer patients at a New York care center: "He's made an impact"
Jon Avery, a hospital valet at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, has become a source of emotional support for patients through his optimistic attitude. His kindness inspired a former patient to organize a surprise gift of Buffalo Bills tickets to thank him for his service.
Why it matters
This story highlights the significant, often overlooked impact that non-clinical staff can have on the patient experience and mental well-being during medical treatment.
Kate Fink is a breast cancer survivor. It is a success she credits, in no small part, to the unlikeliest of people who work at her care center in Buffalo, New York: the hospital valet. "Absolutely, I mean he's made an impact," the 41-year-old Fink told CBS News of the valet. "Not just me, but so many other people."The person Fink speaks so highly of is Jon Avery, who parks cars at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. "There's always an exception to the rule, right?" Avery said. "So I'm one of the exceptions."He does his job with such joy, such contagious optimism, that if not for the wheelchairs, you would never know some of these people were even sick.
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