As hospice workers, we often get asked, “How can you do hospice work?” None of us can stop the death, but we all can support the patients and families we meet. It is from that support that the families are so appreciative and thankful. It is a lot easier to give support to someone than to receive. With receiving, we always feel like another is sacrificing to help us. But that is not true. When we are able to help someone, it feels wonderful.
The patient’s son, “Joe”, was so real and so true. He had such a positive outlook on life. He has been caring for his mother for over three years. Joe has a wonderful husband, “Matthew”, who so supports Joe. One feels the power of their unconditional love for each other. They share that love with family and friends. It is a beautiful thing to have witnessed. I cannot thank them enough. In addition, I also thank my “gang” above, for allowing me to experience and witness such beauty.
GIFT
I met her son and his husband three years ago
when we admitted her to Palliative Care,
I instantly felt unconditional love
the moment I walked through their front door.
He loved her so deeply and continued to let her know.
One wasn’t aware of how much she understood
as her Alzheimer’s Disease was so apparent,
but I know she felt comforted by the kindness in his words.
I have made a few more visits over the years
and each time, it was so clear, the love he had for her.
He was real, even though her decline slowly continued.
“I so love caring for her. How will I be when she is gone?”
I was just out there four days ago; educating him about hospice.
Mom met the hospice criteria, so I shared hospice’s support.
She was admitted late last night as has had a dramatic decline.
She peacefully died early this morning with family by her side.
went out with the nurse to pronounce and support the family.
The moment I walked into their home, he hugged me so firmly.
He was sobbing so deeply as his arms held me tight.
No words were spoken, but the gift we gave each other was clear.
“The moment I met you, you so deeply touched my heart. ] You were meant to be here today to give us your support."
I then softly said, “Your mom taught you unconditional love.
She would want you to continue living your life your way.”
The gift so easily flows both ways.
The more one gives, it is received back a thousand-fold.
I feel so honored by receiving his gift,
but also, so grateful
that he too was aware of mine.
