Loretta Muss, coordinator of the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) at the North Carolina Basnight Cancer Hospital, is retiring after advocating for patients, families, hospital staff and administration the past 14 years.
Muss started in her role with the PFAC in 2009 with the hope of strengthening the relationship between patients, caregivers and their cancer care teams.
“To say Loretta was a force of nature and an inspiration for our programs is actually an understatement,” said Linnea Van Pelt, BSN, RN, CMSRN, OCN, LMBT, manager of UNC Oncology Support Services. “She has a true gift of connecting patients, caregivers, staff and others to ignite a truly unifying purpose of doing all of this work, better, together, in order to improve the lives of our patients.”
At a retirement celebration for Muss on Nov. 9, current and former members of the PFAC shared kind words about Muss’ service and dedication to cancer patients and providers.
In her comments to her colleagues, Muss spoke about the importance of the PFAC. “Having a PFAC helps with communication, does wonders for the staff and it doesn’t cost a cent,” Muss said.
“Her legacy will continue to shape the work we do and ensure that we, too, always keep the patients and their families at the center of it. She will truly be missed,” Van Pelt added.
