Steve E Reiter is interviewed by Steve Reiter. Welcome to "Every Patient's Right." On this episode of Every Patient's Right: Ending Isolation in Healthcare, Steve Reiter sits down with his longtime friend, Stephen E. Reiter, to explore the devastating consequences of medical isolation—both from personal heartbreak and systemic failures. Stephen shares the deeply moving story of his wife Mary, whose routine emergency room visit spiraled into weeks of painful isolation, mismanaged care, and ultimately loss. Together, Steve and Stephen reflect on striking parallels in their own experiences, the vital role of patient advocates, and the need for hospital reforms to keep loved ones connected, especially in times of crisis. Their conversation highlights not just the grief and lasting impact of separation, but also the fight for legislative change to ensure every patient's right to have a loved one by their side. Tune in for a powerful episode about love, loss, and the urgent call to end unnecessary medical isolation.
Outline:
(00:02) "Ending Medical Isolation Podcast"
(06:04) Hospital Visit Amid Severe Pain
(06:42) "Mary's Painful ER Experience"
(11:20) "No Privacy, Mistreatment at Hospital"
(14:44) "Denied ICU Visit, Went Anyway"
(19:02) Hospital Process Reform Proposal Declined
(21:02) "Career Highlights in IT Leadership"
(25:10) "Everyone Needs an Advocate"
(27:35) "Navigating Grief and Survival"
(33:22) Painful Memories and Legal Barriers
(34:59) "Final Goodbye to Mary"
(38:28) "Mary's Illness and Hospital Stay"
(43:27) Love, Family, Faith, and Healing
(46:35) "Support the Never Alone Project"
About the Guest: Stephen E. Reiter is a skilled medical professional recognized for his expertise in nerve connection procedures. In a challenging case, Stephen worked at Erlanger Hospital—the largest teaching hospital in the region—where he was faced with a patient suffering from severe pain, rated between 8 and 10. Despite the crowded conditions brought on by the COVID pandemic, Stephen remained dedicated and focused, assuring that his surgical techniques would provide the relief the patient desperately needed. Through his commitment and brilliant medical work, Stephen brought hope and comfort to both the patient and her loved ones during a difficult time.
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
