Losing a family member at any time is difficult but letting go of our mother and loved one during the COVID-19 conditions was terrible. However, Dan immediately radiated calm and quiet confidence when we met him, as we were allowed to be with her during her last hours.
Dan helped us understand how to navigate COVID conditions and take safety measures, as well as explain how he was going to help R pass over as peacefully and safely as possible. He patiently answered our many and repeated questions about her condition, prognosis, options, and how to help her die with dignity. I'm sure he had to repeat himself several times as the information sunk in for us, but we never felt rushed or that we were pestering him with our requests.
Dan had a very gracious and empathetic way of giving us time to be alone with our loved one and also being nearby to help us through R's dying process. He carefully explained each transition of her passing and what he was doing medically to ease her pain and suffering. His kindness and empathy helped us greatly. It was clear he was skilled in helping patients leave their lives with grace and respect, as well as supporting families during the process, but he treated us as if we were his first and only concern.
R was in her final stages as Dan's shift was ending, but he stayed with us to the very end. We could not be more grateful for his compassion, knowledge, generosity, and gentleness. Dying is a very intimate act that is often shared with strangers, and death comes with many strong emotions that might unsettle some health care providers. But with Dan, we felt like we were in the good hands of an old family friend. He was always calm and centered, which gave us a great deal of comfort and sense of safety. We're grateful for the compassionate care and expertise Dan provided to our family, and I honor his amazing gift as a generous caregiver during such a vulnerable and important time.