It has been just over a month since I was blessed to meet you. I came to visit my Dad who was under your care. You helped me gown up so I could go in. Once I was with him, he said how hungry he was, so we asked for whatever he could eat, and you brought food for me to feed to him. His eyes danced when he could feel it in his stomach. When he was finished, you became his “dental hygienist”, and used a special suction toothbrush to help make his mouth taste fresher. I got to spend time with him, telling him what a great Dad he was (and “twin” since we shared the same birthday, 24 years apart), and sharing memories.

A few hours into my stay the reality of his aspiration became clear. You were there to check his vitals. Switching out machines when the oxygen monitor didn’t seem to work through his thick fingernails. Calling the doctor regarding our request for a feeding tube and his declining status. You were there with me when he started fading…and the look of compassion that filled your eyes as you wished with me that my prayers would be granted that God would not let my Daddy die. We both were aware of the DNR status on his wristband. Your words telling me to make sure I shared any final thoughts with him, as he might still be able to hear me and feel my kiss on his cheek.

You hugged me through my loss and asked the others to put their praying hands on the door and to give me time. I will not forget your kindness and gentleness and with my Dad, and me. I had wished to handwrite this…but then, you wouldn’t be able to read it for the tears falling on the ink, and smudging it. May God bless you, as you continue to tenderly care for the other patients in your life!