HIS GRACE

I went out with the hospice nurse yesterday to admit "Wayne" to our hospice program. Wayne had struggled for years with lung disease. He had been bedridden for several years and on continuous oxygen. Wayne lived in the home with his wife, "Laura."

Laura and Wayne are from very large families, who all live nearby. There were many family members in the home yesterday as all felt that Wayne was near death. They felt that Wayne was waiting for his grandson, who lived in Illinois, to come, and then he would go. During my visit yesterday, his grandson called to say he was getting on the plane.

I learned this afternoon that there was a wrong date on one of the admission papers. I needed Laura to change it to the correct date and initial the change. I arrived at the home late this afternoon. Like yesterday, their home was full of family. Laura corrected the date and initialed the paperwork. Seconds later, family became alarmed as Wayne's breathing dramatically changed and he quietly died.

I called the hospice office for a nurse to come out to pronounce Wayne's death. I was able to be with the family and offer support for their loss and their emotions.

I was feeling that I was meant to be there and was guided from above. Laura and several other family members confirmed my thoughts by saying how it was a blessing that I was there. This is such a perfect example of what hospice is all about. I am so thankful to be able to experience such spiritual moments.


HIS GRACE
　
I first met him yesterday.
His time seemed near.
He wasn't talking or awake much,
but one saw his beautiful smile.

His heart shone through
while he quietly laid there.
Surrounded by spirit,
his grace was amazing.

I went back to his house today
for a five minute paperwork need.
Moments after I arrived,
with all of his family around,
          he quietly died.

Their home was filled with family.
Their home was full of love.
He left at the perfect time for him
knowing they all had the needed support.

They thanked me for being there.
They said it was God's spirit at work.
I can't thank them or God enough
          as His grace is
                   truly amazing.