Dr. Sumit Som and Advanced Cardiology Staff Honored in Patient’s Book, I’m Still Standing
At Advanced Cardiology and Primary Care, we are honored to share a meaningful recognition from author Velandrea Giselle Ratliff. In her book, I’m Still Standing, Ratliff dedicates a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Sumit Som and the Advanced Cardiology staff, thanking them for their care, compassion, and reassurance during a difficult chapter of her life.
Her words offer a personal perspective on the difference a caring medical team can make for a patient and their family.
A Patient’s Tribute to Dr. Sumit Som and His Team
On page 21, Ratliff addresses Dr. Som and the staff directly, describing the support she received while navigating serious health challenges. She reflects on the vulnerability and uncertainty she experienced and expresses gratitude for the team’s steady presence.
Her appreciation extends to the staff members who helped her through monitoring and testing. Throughout the passage, she emphasizes both the attention given to her care and the kindness that made a demanding experience more manageable.
One line captures the heart of her tribute:
“You did not just protect my physical heart; you protected my hope.”
— Velandrea Giselle Ratliff, I’m Still Standing, page 21
Recognizing the People Behind Patient Care
Ratliff’s acknowledgment highlights the many people involved in a patient’s experience. Alongside her thanks to Dr. Som, she recognizes the staff’s tenderness, attentiveness, and support.
She also describes what their reassurance meant to her family. Her account is a reminder that a patient’s experience includes the conversations, encouragement, and personal connections that take place throughout their care.
We are grateful that she chose to recognize our team in such a personal way.
Meet Dr. Sumit Som, New Jersey Cardiologist
Dr. Sumit Som is a board-certified interventional cardiologist at Advanced Cardiology and Primary Care. His training includes cardiovascular disease, interventional cardiology, advanced cardiac imaging, and congestive heart failure.
In his approach to care, Dr. Som emphasizes working together with patients and tailoring recommendations to each individual’s needs, values, and background. Ratliff’s tribute offers her own perspective on the compassion and reassurance she experienced from him and the team.
Thank You, Velandrea, for Sharing Your Words
We extend our sincere appreciation to Velandrea Giselle Ratliff for including Dr. Som and the Advanced Cardiology staff in I’m Still Standing. We are honored by her words and grateful for the opportunity to be part of her care.
Her tribute is a meaningful recognition of the people who supported her and a reminder of why personal attention matters in medicine.
Connect With Advanced Cardiology and Primary Care
Advanced Cardiology and Primary Care serves patients in New Jersey, with offices including Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, and Morris Plains. Advanced Cardiology and Primary Care LLC
To learn more about our physicians or discuss scheduling a cardiology appointment, contact our team.




