Brenda A. Young has extensive clinical and leadership experience in both acute care and hospice care, earning the nickname, “fearless leader.” She is a graduate of Columbia University with a master’s degree in Nurse Executive and Organizational Leadership and is a board-certified, Nurse Executive. Brenda has a decade in hospice leadership with a reputation for providing unwavering support to staff to promote exceptional patient outcomes. A fierce advocate for patients, families, and the community, Brenda is a champion of removing barriers to hospice access and promoting hospice education. She meets challenges in the ever-changing healthcare landscape with innovation.
“For 15 years I worked at a prominent medical center in the field of oncology. I was caring for a 22-year-old glioblastoma patient for one year who was comatose, with recurrent infections, multiple bed sores, being kept alive on life support and artificial nutrition. One night I was suctioning his tracheostomy, his face was bright red, he was choking from the suctioning. I started to cry, ‘What am I doing? I am inflicting pain and suffering; he has no voice.’ I became a nurse to alleviate suffering. In that moment I had an epiphany; I needed to pursue an opportunity in hospice where patients and families would have a choice for treatment or not, a program that would individualize their needs with acceptance, respect, and unconditional support provided by a team of hospice experts.
It is the most gratifying experience to sit with a patient and family who are overwhelmed with the unknown and numerous decisions, to explore what their final wishes are, while reducing the fears of death by providing hope for a pain-free end-of-life journey and empowering them which restores their dignity. It is a privilege and the ultimate gift to walk beside a hospice patient and family.”
“We are excited to have Brenda Young join our team,” said Mary Crosby, President and CEO of East End Hospice. “Brenda’s leadership will support the expansion of services and improve care quality. Her expertise complements the organization’s strengths and aligns with new growth opportunities. The team is eager for Brenda to engage with the community, patients, and families.”
