My Dad lost his fight with cancer at MH hospital. We did realize this would occur but had so much anxiety and sadness. The night before my dad passed, Gilbert was our nurse and had to call 2 rapid responses to support my dad's care and comfort. He did so with a calmness which was comforting as I know he was likely very stressed. That night my dad was moved to comfort care and a morphine drip was initiated. Gilbert continued to care for my dad with the utmost respect and with dignity while cleaning him up after an incontinence episode and repositioning.
Overnight I slept on a cot next to my dad and at 4:30 am I opened my eyes to see Gilbert checking on my dad's vitals with a flashlight, as quiet as possible so as not to disturb me. At the end of his shift at 6:30 am, he brought me a coffee and hugged me, letting me know he would pray for my family and see me in the evening.
Gilbert returned for work and was such a blessing to our family as we knew my dad would be passing soon. He checked on us, let us know of options if my dad showed signs of distress, hugged us and brought us waters. When Gilbert saw my dad's vitals dropping, he stood with us in the room, touching my back to be there in silent support. He checked his vitals and let us know he had passed. In those moments, he was fully present as though we were the only people that mattered in his world. He talked to us about his own experience and how much his heart was burdened for us at that moment. He allowed us to stay with our dad until we were ready to leave, never once rushing us. He is such a wonderful young man, so full of compassion and love. We felt like he was our guardian angel and was meant to be with us on those final days. He is a cherished asset to your team.