Anne Nuss, Board Secretary

Anne Nuss

Outpatient Social Worker
Reading Hospital & Medical Center

I joined the Circle of Life Coalition when we were first known as the Berks End of Life Care Coalition, and was elected Board Secretary when we changed the name and became a non-profit.    I’ve worked as a Medical Social Worker for many years, and have always had a special interest in end of life care issues.  Intervening with patients and families struggling to make appropriate decisions at or near the end of life presents very difficult and emotionally-charged challenges.  The mission we have developed in the Circle of Life mirrors my personal mission to decrease the cultural taboo and encourage planning ahead.  The creative and enthusiastic teamwork in the Circle of Life has become a wonderful venue for promoting genuine quality of life.

I feel fortunate to have been raised in a family which recognized death as part of the “circle” of life and the importance of caring for each other to promote the celebration of life not only at birth, but throughout the whole life span.  Loss of a loved one is painful and sad, but each of our lives is richer because that person lived and was part of our life.

In my current work with cancer patients and families I have many opportunities to assist in problem-solving and decision-making.  Facing a life-threatening illness often increases interest in realistic discussion and planning.  I feel blessed by the courageous conversation that takes place, and I am comforted when these patients and families learn to pay attention to what matters most, in their relationships, and their awareness of how precious the time and quality of their life really is. Those who survive are much more likely to appreciate each day.  Those whose disease is not curable can still benefit from the comfort of loving, supportive care.

Anne is the Board Secretary for the Coalition and is a Co-founder of the Circle of Life Coalition.