When Dr. Alexander Nesbitt walked into The Elder and Special Needs Resource Center on Wednesday morning, he thought he was there to discuss the creation and implementation of a living will with Julieanne Steinbacher, founding shareholder of the elder care law firm of Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak. After the presentation, he was presented with The Dr. Alexander Nesbitt Commitment to Caring Award during a surprise ceremony.

"This was so unexpected and a wonderful surprise," Nesbitt said

Each year the award, developed by the elder care law firm of Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, will be presented to someone who commits to caring about others.

At right, Julieanne Steinbacher, founding shareholder of Steinbacher & Stahl, presents Dr. Alexander Nesbitt with The Dr. Alexander Nesbitt Commitment to Caring Award for his commitment to caring and improving the lives of others. The award was inspired by an appreciation for Nesbitt’s work with patients and their families who are facing terminal illness.

"This award was inspired by an appreciation for Dr. Nesbitt's work with patients and their families, who are facing terminal illness," Steinbacher said. "He is devoted in caring for his patients, positive in his outlook and passionate about teaching people how to have the most personal and fulfilling end of life experience." Nesbitt is the medical director of Susquehanna Health Home Care and Hospice. He is licensed and board certified in family practice, geriatrics and hospice and palliative medicine. Nesbitt also is credited with bringing palliative medicine and an awareness of end of life care to the region.

Through his work at Susquehanna Health Home Care and Hospice, Nesbitt and his staff work to help patients and their families find their way through the experience and process of dying. He guides patients in a way that allows truthful and important communication between the patient, family, caregivers and medical personnel, Steinbacher said.

After he received his award, Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak made a cash donation in his honor to Susquehanna Home Care and Hospice. A reception followed the award ceremony.