Health Currents Feature - Fall 2008

Mary Zenorini knows she isn’t alone when dealing with the emotions of death. The unknown, the denial and the realization that the inevitable is occurring can many times be too much for a person to digest. But the openness of others in acknowledging the death process is often lacking. “I wish we could talk about death more openly,” said Zenorini. “I believe it would help alleviate the fear and allow people to spend those last precious days fully involved with their loved ones.

“Suddenly losing my parents was a devastating life event. Although difficult, Hood River internal medicine physicians Stephen Vogt, M.D., Ryan Petersen M.D., and Gary Regalbuto, M.D., made the journey of caring for my ailing parents and coming to terms with their eventual deaths less painful. Their honesty in regards to the actuality of death allowed me to honor my parents’ wishes to die at home. For this, I am forever thankful.”

Her experience has led Zenorini to pursue a career in the death and dying field. “I made this choice because I know first hand the importance of talking about death,” she said. “I hope to make the same difference my physicians and Providence Hood River have made to me.

“Providence Hood River’s quality of health care went far beyond the bedside. Upon entering the hospital we were surrounded with tenderness, dignity and respect – much like you would experience in a family. Now I consider Providence to be a part of my family. We are lucky to have a health care facility of this caliber serving our communities.”

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