Lost a good friend today

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Specializes in LTC, Hospice, Tele, ICU.

About 18 months ago a very good friend of mine was diagnosed with lung cancer. See this gentlman was a pivital person in my life. We worked together for 5 years and during the last few he REALLY, REALLY, REALLY encouraged me and lifted me up when I would get discouraged about nursing school. He would regularly come to work and tell me about employment ads he saw and how I'd be set for life and never go without a job. He was one of only a few people that I worked with at that point that was positive. There were times when I thought about giving up and I'd think about David encouraging me and that I'd make him proud of me. He was sort of an older brother/father figure. Fast forward to this past Saturday. I go in to work at my per diem Hospice job and see a referal with his name on it. He had been admitted the day prior. I told my charge nurse I wanted to be the nurse to visit him that day. I was hoping I wouldn't cry....I didn't! He had lost alot of weight, was on a PCA pump which I increased d/t his pain and only taking sips at this point. Still very much alert though. I made my visit and did some of my own visiting while I was there. I told him how much I loved him and how I was thankful for the encouragement he gave me and let him know that he TRULY touched my life. Today, during my lunch break, I received a call from another old friend whom worked with David and I informing me that David had passed away this morning. WOW how come I can't believe it! I know from a nursing standpoint that this is a good thing....no more pain, no more suffering. However, from a friend standpoint it really sucks!!!!

Why am I writing this post? Not really sure....perhaps I just need to write down how important he is to me....perhaps to let everyone know that we should always encourage one another. The least thing you say to someone might be one of the most important things they'll hear.

Thank you David!!!:heartbeat

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So sorry for your loss!! I'm glad you were able to visit him b-4 he passed. God bless.

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Thank you for sharing your experience. Even though, like you said, knowing he is out of pain doesn't help the pain you feel from losing such a wonderful friend. It is never easy and the more you love someone the more it hurts to lose them. I'm not a believer in "time heals all wounds" but I do believe the pain lessens with time. May God Bless.

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I have always found it amazing how the right people come into our lives at the right time! David was that right person for you.

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I'm sorry to hear that you have lost someone who was so important to you. Thank you for sharing his memory with us.

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Specializes in Hospice and Palliative Care, Family NP.

I am sorry for your loss. It sounds like David was a wonderful person.

It was great that you had the opportunity to see him and tell him how important he was to you. I am sure you touched him in a very special way that day.

God Bless you,

Cindy

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