[Passin' Gas]

My father passed away 5 July 04. He had many chronic and debilitating diseases, and at age 82 finally succumbed. My mother is involved in community projects. Through her involvement she befriended, Sharon, a hospice nurse. With the advice and emotional support from Sharon and a physician (who recently lost his father), my mother and sisters were able to care for Dad at home. The last few days were extremely difficult, unable to take in fluids, the labored breathing, erratic heart rhythm, everything that had been normal for Dad was all abnormal....this was extremely difficult for my mother to witness. After 54 years together, Mom knew Dad's health status better than he did! She's been his primary caretaker for the last several years as his health has declined over time. The fortitude and strength of the women in my family astound me. Sharon, out of friendship, helped out in the last few days offering advice on medications, consoling my mother and sister's grief, offering insight to what we were witnessing and what to expect as he deteriorated further. Her explanations lessened the worry and fear for us. It was very important for us to have Dad at home. He was surrounded by loved ones and in familiar surroundings. I like to think that made his journey into the light easier.

I admire all of you for what you do. It truly takes a special person to help others in this most heart-wrenching period. My sincere thanks for offering this very special part of nursing to those in need.

PG, CRNA

[earle58]

dear pg,

please accept my sympathy for the loss of your dad.
my prayers also extend to your mother and hope she is getting some much needed rest.
it is often more difficult for the family to watch than what the patient actually experiences.
i'm pleased to hear that sharon greatly helped your family in such a difficult and trying time.

wishing you and yours much peace.

leslie

[Passin' Gas]

Originally Posted by earle58

dear pg,

please accept my sympathy for the loss of your dad.
my prayers also extend to your mother and hope she is getting some much needed rest.
it is often more difficult for the family to watch than what the patient actually experiences.
i'm pleased to hear that sharon greatly helped your family in such a difficult and trying time.

wishing you and yours much peace.

leslie

Thank you for the condolences. I mostly wanted to share my experience with hospice as an RN (out of the field) and how immensely important you all are to the death/dying experience.

Hospice is a wonderful field for those suited to it. It truly takes a special person to take on this type of care. My family and I thank you for all you do.

PG, CRNA

[Hellllllo Nurse]

PG, CRNA-

My sympathies are with you and your family in the loss of your father. I glad he was able to be at home.

Signed, former hospice nurse (inpt, nocs, 4 years)