FROM ABOVE

“Laurie”, seventy-seven, has been in poor health for several years.  She’s had COPD, a lung disease which left her needing some additional help with house cleaning and cooking.  Laurie has had caregivers coming in for several years to help her with those chores.  Five days ago, Laurie collapsed suddenly and was rushed to the hospital.  It was there she was informed it was her lungs which caused her collapse.  She will now need oxygen on a continuous basis. 

The doctors told her that there was nothing more to be done.  It was then when she was referred to hospice.   The hospice nurse and I went out to Laurie’s home and met two of her closest friends.  A few minutes after our arrival, the ambulance brought Laurie home.  She looked so weak and frail.  She had a difficult time keeping her eyes open.  When she spoke, it was in a very soft tone and only a few words at a time.  

It is spirituality which draws me to hospice.  When I walk into a patient’s home, I will “let go” and allow myself to be guided from above.  I wanted Laurie to know that we were there to support her and her family and friends. 

I bent down close to her and lightly laid my hand on her shoulder.  It was then I gently asked her about any fears.   I felt a presence in my soul.   I was then guided from above as my words were not me speaking, but my spirit was guiding me. It makes sense to me that it was Ellie speaking through me.  But whether that is true or not, the right words did come through. 

When I allow my spirit to guide me, the words are always the right thing to say.  This is the true reason why I am in hospice.  I see true life right before my eyes.  All of us will walk this journey just once.  I am so honored to be able to witness such glorious and beautiful moments.  

ADDENDUM:  Laurie died peacefully two days later with her family and friends at the bedside.

FROM ABOVE

 

She collapsed quite suddenly

thinking she had a stroke;

but it was her lungs failing her.

Continuous oxygen is now the plan.

 

She was hospitalized for treatment.

Nothing more to be done.

She likely has only days or just a bit more.

A dramatic change of health.

 

Her friends are rallying around her

helping out as much as they can.

Her family is flying in tomorrow.

They know it is to say goodbye.

 

She lost Ellie, her life partner

about four and a half years ago.

She was the love of her life.

Photographic memories lining her walls.

 

She has strong Christian beliefs,

but has been non-practicing for years.

I bent down to be near her face

and placed a soothing hand on her shoulder.

 

I softly asked if she had any fears.

Her reply came from deep in her soul.

“I am afraid to die, but this is so hard.

         I am ready to go”.

 

Being guided from above, I gently said,

“Ellie is waiting for you in Heaven.

I crossed over seven years ago.

I so truly know how beautiful it is”.

 

She slowly turned her head toward me

and from the depths of her soul quietly said,

         “I love you. 

                     I love you.”