In Memory of Someone Who Made a Difference
Vincent Bonvino was a patient at St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center more on than off from November 2005 until his passing on March 19, 2006. He was admitted to 3 South - Oncology. Despite the ups and downs of his health, one thing remained a constant - the support of his loving family and friends, and the compassionate and professional care he received from the St. Catherine’s staff. Mr. Bonvino was so moved by the quality of care he received that he decided he wanted to do something in return. With a great deal of help from his sister, Marie Superina and other members of his family, Mr. Bonvino hosted his own staff appreciation day on February 8th. The daytime staff from 3 South was treated to a complete buffet breakfast including home-made muffins and scones, while the evening shift was treated to a Chinese buffet.
“Mr. Bonvino and his family were very generous,” exclaimed Dr. Steven Montana, the Oncologist who cared for Mr. Bonvino. “It’s very rare for a patient to go to this extent to show their appreciation to the staff.”
When asked why he had gone to such lengths to recognize the staff, Mr. Bonvino answered, “On this floor people often don’t feel too well, but the nurses here lift our spirits and go all out to take really good care of all the patients.” Apparently this gesture on the part of Vincent Bonvino was typical of his life…a life in which he flourished by spreading joy to others.
Three decades ago Dr. Sultan Mohiuddin was Vincent Bonvino’s surgeon. It didn’t take long for Mr. Bonvino’s warmth and sense of humor to turn this doctor/patient relationship into something more. A friendship developed and deepened further to the point that Mr. Bonvino began to refer to Dr. Mohiuddin as his brother. With this bond established, the two families celebrated many happy occasions and milestones together. It was only fitting then that Mrs. Bonvino and her daughters would ask Dr. Mohiuddin to give the eulogy for Vincent Bonvino. Even more fitting, in quoting both the Bible and the Quran, Dr. Mohiuddin hit upon the theme that Vincent Bonvino’s spirit lives on in all the joyous memories he made for all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. It's nice to know that St. Catherine's efforts were were so appreciated by a man who so often, gave of himself.
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