"You do the work of His hands." This comment from Mr. G.'s wife about Angie Grippo RN, one of our Gagnon A nurses, describes her perfectly. Survey comments similar to this one often mention Angie's compassionate way of putting her patients and their families at ease during their hospital experience. And compassion seems never more impactful than at that time in a patient's life when life itself is coming to an end. Angie is not dramatic, nor does she ever seek credit. She steers the ship quietly, guiding this transition from human life to spiritual life with all the dignity it deserves. Most of our cardiac patients progress very nicely towards improved health. But during the times when this is no longer possible, Angie steps in with reassuring grace.
In November, Mr. G. was admitted once again with heart failure. He was exhausted and so was his family. All that current medicine could offer had already been done and Angie listened carefully to the patient's wishes. He wanted to die at home. A scary thought for loved ones to comprehend. But along with his doctors, Mr. G. agreed that this was the right and inevitable choice. He was comfortable with his decision and Angie was able to reassure the family that his care would not be interrupted by going home. Through great communication with our care managers and social worker, Mr. G.'s wish was granted. In a note after his passing, the family expressed their deepest gratitude for Angie's help which enabled them to give their loved one his final and most precious gift.