On Sunday, we celebrated our parents' 72nd wedding anniversary. We had a wonderful celebration with plenty of family and friends. A good time was had by all. It was the best of times! Shortly after, mom's health began to decline....a fall, confusion, memory loss, no appetite. You recognize the symptoms of declining health of a 92-year-old matriarch. We provided 24.7 care for our mom and data. It was difficult but doable. As we entered April 2021, we were told Mom's health was not improving, and we needed to prepare for the inevitable. To make matters worse, our dad was experiencing health issues of his own. Dad was admitted to the hospital, and we kept vigil with Mom. Our beloved mother passed from this life surrounded by her loving family, including our dad 'on leave' from the hospital. We began planning for the viewing and the funeral...two days! Did we mention dad suffers from severe neuropathy of both legs and feet? At the time, he was having a great deal of difficulty dressing himself and ambulating without assistance. How could we possibly manage to honor our parents' wishes and deal with our individual grief with Dad in the hospital? It became the worst of times! Enter the 5th floor care team!

These special friends took on the impossible task of dressing our dad in his 'going to church' finest... not once, but twice. Those who knew our dad can testify to the fact that this could not have been easy. Let's see...there were details. Undergarments that would endure urgency; compression stockings to deal with leg edema; suit pants, quickly altered because he is shorter than he used to be and could only get slippers to fit; long-sleeved shift, seam cut and ties added to accommodate the IV site and tubing; suspenders, not usually needed and borrowed from a friend...pants were too big...can't have the pants fall down. Mom would be mortified! And then the necktie? Indeed, the TP who took charge, gave directions for how this would be done, masterfully positioned the knot and reminded him not to untie it upon his return because she was off the next day! Hair - anyone feeling extra brave? And last but not least...the beard!! Our only disappointment. Dad quite unexpectedly decided to stop shaving. Our mom did not care for it, but Dad informed us he was in control. At least it was covered by the required covid-mask!

Because of your kindness, because of your concern for a man saying goodbye to the woman he had loved for nearly 73 years - and the difference you made for a devastated family...you deserve this recognition of the DAISY Team Award! Because of you, it became the best of times. You made the difference!