Jennifer's patient had been on the oncology unit for nearly a week. He was a young man dying of cancer with two children, ages 9 and 11. His sister shared with Jennifer that the children did not yet know that their father had cancer…or was close to the end of his life. This was very concerning to both the patient, his wife, and sister who were struggling with how to tell the children this devastating news.
Jennifer had formed a special bond with the patient and his sister and mentioned that she had been a teacher before becoming a nurse. Because of their closeness and her special skills, he asked if Jennifer would be present when his children came to visit and be there when they were told about their father's illness. Jennifer agreed. She and the sister took the two children into a private family room where they could have this emotional conversation and share their fears, tears, and hugs. Jennifer offered support, answered questions, and helped the family come together to plan how they could take their brother and father home with Hospice care. She even made arrangements for the sister to ride home in the ambulance with her brother. Jennifer played an integral role in meeting both the physical and emotional needs of this young patient and his family at the end of life…and helped a family come together to create a peaceful transition home. Jennifer offered the compassion and protection that this family desperately needed. For Jennifer to do this while caring for numerous other patients, likely with similar needs, is quite remarkable.