My uncle had multiple strokes and we found ourselves having to decide quality or quantity of life. He had lost his ability to do so much on his own, to include eat, drink, move legs, right arm, turn head, just to name a few. So when he decided he no longer wanted to be kept alive in the way he was, we were moved to the STC floor 4 for him to receive comfort care until he passes. We are still here waiting for him to go be with our Father at our forever home in Heaven.
Now that I gave you some background let me tell you about Raquel. This beautiful soul came into the room and introduced herself to us coming into her shift. When I met her I was struggling mentally myself. Losing a loved one is never easy and I have four children at home who fully depend on me for their needs so choosing to be away from them so I could be here with my uncle made this process hurt even more. I had not left this room upon meeting Raquel. I was afraid to leave even if it were to get food, so I was going without. She would come in and provide exceptional care for my uncle. Speaking to him as if he coherent enough to respond which made my heart so happy because he was treated like a living human regardless of his current state. She spoke some of the friendliest and encouraging words to me that helped me be able to leave this room 20 minutes to eat. In that 20 minutes I was away it felt like everything she said it would, for me to care for my uncle and show him the love he needs and be there for him. I did need to take time for me, even if it was 20 minutes to eat. Or visit the courtyard here which was just beautiful as she had described and even more beautiful and peaceful at night.
She offered me supplies to shower, something else I had gone without because my house is in Killeen and I did not want to go that far from here. Her words, her kindness, the way she cared to take the time with not only my uncle but to encourage me as well. I will never forget her. She helped me look at life so different and in such a beautiful way. She helped me find some peace and understanding during this very emotional time and for that, I can never repay her. She was a blessing to not only my uncle, but to me also.
She is a strong woman too. To care so much about someone and their family during the stages of passing on is already something so huge. It takes a lot to see this cycle and still continue to do this. That takes love and a heart that cares. While our care was good from everyone, I just didn't feel in my heart any of them could compare to the heart she wore on her shoulder while she cared for my uncle and me. Thank you so much, Raquel. We will never forget the impact you left.