Heartfelt Stories – Don’s Journey of Hope: A Story of Resilience and Collaborative Care

Dr. Eric Bonnem stands beside patient Don Nalette in a bright, welcoming infusion therapy room at Monadnock Community Hospital. Don is seated and smiling, wearing a plaid shirt, while Dr. Bonnem wears a green sweater vest with a stethoscope.
Heartfelt Stories - Don’s Journey of Hope: A Story of Resilience and Collaborative Care
Heartfelt Stories – Don’s Journey of Hope: A Story of Resilience and Collaborative Care

Heartfelt Stories

At Monadnock Community Hospital, we are proud to share our Heartfelt Stories featuring inspiring testimonials from our patients, employees, volunteers, donors, and community members. Each story reflects the exceptional care, support, and compassion that define our commitment to our community. Join us in celebrating these remarkable journeys and the difference compassionate care can make.

Don Nalette of Jaffrey has always enjoyed life’s adventures, from practicing long-range shooting and building vintage firearms to peaceful kayaking trips. After years of hauling pre-cast concrete, he was enjoying retirement—until last year, when his life took an unexpected turn.

“I admit I’d been putting off colonoscopies for years,” Don reflects. “Turns out I should have listened to my doctor.”

When Don finally scheduled a colonoscopy, Dr. Michael Gilbert of Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates discovered tumors causing a blockage. Due to the severity of his condition, Don was scheduled for surgery with Dr. Brian Kwitkin of Monadnock Surgical Associates the very next morning.

“Everything happened so fast,” Don recalls, “but I was treated so well by everyone—from the doctors to the nurses. They were all so pleasant, encouraging, and professional.”

He especially appreciated the calm and welcoming atmosphere of Monadnock Community Hospital, which allowed him to receive attentive, personal care in a private room.

After 12 challenging chemotherapy sessions under the care of Dr. Eric Bonnem in the MCH Oncology and Infusion Therapy Center, Don is making remarkable progress. Initially, doctors estimated only a 20% chance of full recovery. However, after liver surgery at Dartmouth Health, his care team is now hopeful for a full recuperation.

“I’m so grateful to the team at MCH for their care and professionalism,” Don says. “They took good care of me.”

Now, with new possibilities on the horizon, Don is looking forward to getting back to the hobbies that bring him joy.