Alyssa, it seemed, was always there or came quickly when we needed her. Her knowledge, confidence, calm, and steady patience in every circumstance were reassuring to us. Even before Hospice arrived, before papers were signed, she helped us navigate the flow of previously ordinary visits by phlebotomists, doctors, etc., and how to decline without creating more stress. She spoke cheerfully to my mom without being too sweet and was gently candid with us. She provided for us before we knew we needed anything like coffee or a blanket or an explanation.

She was kind even when also being the charge nurse and her phone kept ringing. She never made us feel rushed or unimportant. Most of all, she really came alongside us in our desire for Mom’s best. She was with “us” even while being the professional in charge so that we didn’t have an “us” and “them” feeling between strangers and those who cared about my Mom. It was Alyssa who opened her arms to me after my mom passed, and had opened her heart while my mom was still alive.