2024 Edward E. Rosenbaum Award Recipient
Jessica Wise, RN
Jessica Wise is a Registered Nurse with over 20 years of professional experience serving vulnerable populations in the government and non-profit sectors. Jessica earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Ohio State University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mount Carmel College of Nursing, and a dual Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Healthcare Administration from Wilmington University. Jessica began her nursing career in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at The Cleveland Clinic. She later joined the Hospice and Palliative Medicine department, serving as an inpatient referral coordinator, case manager, and held several leadership roles within the department.
In 2021, Jessica became the Northwest Regional Director of Hospice and Palliative Care with Kaiser Permanente. In this role, she oversees Kaiser Permanente’s hospice program in addition to the inpatient, clinic, and community based palliative care programs. In addition to her work at Kaiser, Jessica serves on the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Next Generation Leadership Council, where she is co-chair of the Mentorship subcommittee. Additionally, Jessica is a passionate hospice and palliative care advocate and serves as a MyHospice Ambassador with the Hospice Action Network. This summer, she traveled to Capitol Hill to meet with Oregon and Washington senators and representatives, advocating for several hospice-focused priorities.
She was honored to present Representative Earl Blumenauer with the Hospice Action Network Angel award. Throughout her career, Jessica has presented on end-of-life topics at several national and regional conferences.
2024 Edward E. Rosenbaum Award Recipient
Barbara Karnes, RN
Barbara Karnes, RN is a renowned expert in the field of death and dying. With a career spanning four decades, she has made significant contributions as an end-of-life educator and advocate. She gained prominence as an early hospice pioneer during the AIDS crisis and has since become a respected figure in the field.
Barbara's work and articles have been featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, USA Today, The Huffington Post, Thrive Global, and The Washington Post, among others. Her writings cover a wide range of topics related to death and dying, offering insights and guidance for patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
One of Barbara's most notable contributions is her booklet titled "GONE FROM MY SIGHT: The Dying Experience," which is often referred to as "the little blue hospice book." This iconic booklet has become a valuable resource for understanding the dying process and has helped countless individuals navigate the challenges and emotions associated with end-of-life care.
Barbara Karnes has received recognition for her outstanding work, including the NHPCO Innovator award, which acknowledges her contributions as an end-of-life educator.
Throughout her career, she has not only provided direct care to patients and families as a nurse but has also served in leadership roles as the executive director of hospice and various home-health agencies.
Barbara's extensive experience and compassionate approach have made her a trusted voice in the field of death and dying. Her insights and expertise continue to shape and improve the care provided to individuals facing the end of life, as well as their loved ones.
“People don’t understand that there’s a normal, natural way of dying. My materials are written to guide and support anyone who finds themselves addressing end of life situations. The goal is to help people have a positive experience so everyone involved will have a sacred memory to carry with them.” - Barbara Karnes, RN
You may find Barbara’s end of life resources for patients, families, and caregivers on her website: www.bkbooks.com
