Within a couple of days , we were getting requests for permission to share Holly ’ s story on mainstream news channels across the world , including the U . K and USA . On one site alone that had shared Holly ’ s letter , we were made aware that it had received over 10 million hits ( above normal ) in just a few days !
Once the letter went viral , I think the feeling shifted from shock to pride . It was clear that Holly ’ s letter had resonated with people the world over and to this day , our family continues to receive letters from those that have in some way , been touched by what she wrote . I think that ’ s because she was so brutally honest .... she didn ’ t waste a single word .
What was it about Katie Benton ’ s award nomination that made you realise she was the right recipient ?
There were about 10 short-listed nominations that our family had reviewed prior to reading Katie ’ s . It actually found our inboxes at the 11th hour , but there was little doubt in our minds that Katie was the most deserved winner .
“ Katie ’ s nominee stated that she had always advocated for the best interests of the patient , even if it challenged the status quo .”
Katie ’ s nominee stated that she had always advocated for the best interests of the patient , even if it challenged the status quo . Because of her situation , Holly had been thankful for medical staff that operated with this philosophy . That was something that really stood out for us .
Are Holly and Katie alike , and if so , in what ways ?
Katie ’ s award nomination spoke about a woman focussed on providing Holistic patient care , being passionate and working with an upbeat attitude . All of these qualities remind us of Holly .
How can we all help to continue to spread the message Holly has left us with ?
The last paragraph of Holly ’ s letter spoke about the importance of donating blood . We want this to be her legacy .
© Dietitian Connection 30 Infuse | June 2018