My 91-year-old mother entered Val’s care with pneumonia and conjunctivitis. We did not initially realize how close to death she was at the time. Val’s wisdom and experience knew the truth and with gentle conversations and nursing skill, she helped us gauge the situation. She was on constant vigil (if we weren’t there, the door was always open). Val took the time to explain any questions or concerns we had, even down to explaining the kinds of respiratory suction methods and what each entailed. That really helped us the next day when respiratory therapy was performing the noninvasive procedure….After a few days, the conjunctivitis was under control, but Mom’s health was rapidly deteriorating.

Without our request or knowledge, Val fought to allow us to remove the protective clothing. We were under so much stress and sorrow, it was an extreme kindness. Val was always there for questions, reassurance, and a hug when it became clear that we would have to enter hospice. Because of the good nursing care, Mom’s vitals were stable and she was transferred to Surrey Place and died peacefully in less than 24 hours. We would like to thank Val for making a very hard time that much easier.