Paonessa Colon & Rectal Surgery

Medical Professionals “Thankful, Grateful And Blessed…”

Nina Paonessa, DO, FACOS

As we enter the Holiday season and reflect upon all the events of this past year, a tumultuous one at the very least, I cannot agree more on how appropriate this issue’s theme is. “Thankful, grateful and blessed” – just a few words that capture some of the feelings I have held close to my heart throughout this past year.

The healthcare crisis along with the resultant social and economic ramifications caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the turmoil caused by the current political climate, and overall divisive attitudes present among the American people, may certainly foster a feeling of despair. Not one of us has been left untouched by any, if not all, of these major crises. However, I am thankful, grateful and blessed to acknowledge that I am still present, healthy, and able to do what I love best – practice the art and science of medicine and surgery. This past year’s struggles simply reinforce my love and gratitude. I am thankful to remain healthy amidst the constant threat of the Covid-19 pandemic, grateful that I have been able to keep my practice afloat in spite of the financial hardships doled out as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, and blessed to care for the amazing individuals that walk into my office each day. I truly consider it a privilege to care for each and every one of my patients. My life is enriched by their uniqueness, kindness and individuality. I learn something from every encounter. “Thankful, grateful and blessed” are just three of many words to express my sentiments at this time of the year and always.

“Thankful, grateful and blessed” - these three words have a deeper meaning on a broader landscape. I am thankful we live in a world where medicine and science are so advanced as to be able to study and develop treatments for the global pandemic caused by the Covid-19 virus. I am also thankful to live in a country where we, as Americans, have access to healthcare, new and emerging treatments, and vaccines for the Covid-19 virus. I am extremely grateful for all of the frontline workers and all the other Americans who risk their health and safety to contribute to society during this pandemic – workers at any and all essential businesses (grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, banks, gas stations, trucking companies, etc.). And we, as Americans, are blessed beyond measure for many liberties we generally take for granted – overall freedom, freedom of speech, religion and individuality, safety and “the pursuit of happiness”.

As 2021 draws to an end, I would like to share a few borrowed quotes which seem to adequately summarize my sentiments:

“For the laughter of the children, for my own life breath, for the abundance of food on this table, for the ones who prepared this sumptuous feast, for the roof over our heads, the clothes on our backs, for our health, and our wealth of blessings, for this opportunity to celebrate with family and friends, for the freedom to pray these words without fear, in any language, in any faith, in this great country, whose landscape is as vast and beautiful as her inhabitants. Thank you, God, for giving us all these. Amen.” — Rabbi Naomi Levy

“My life is so blessed with some of the most amazing people. Thank you for being a part of my journey”. - Unknown.

Wishing you and yours a healthy, happy and safe Holiday season. - Nina J. Paonessa, D.O and Staff

Colon and Rectal Surgery

Board Certified in General Surgery and Proctology • laparoscopic surgery • abdominal/pelvic surgery • fecal incontinence • endoanal/rectal ultrasound • anorectal surgery • pelvic floor disorders • office proctology • anorectal manometry/ physiology

603 Higgins Avenue Brielle, NJ 08730 1301 Route 72 West, Suite 240 Manahawkin, NJ 08050

Phone: (732) 282-1500 • Fax: (732) 292-9600