By Mickey Ryan, CRNP
Often, while their loved one is dying here in the inpatient unit, or even after they’ve passed away, a family member will thank me and say something like, “…it takes a special person to do this work.” Today the husband of a dying woman said, “You must be a very strong person to work here.” This couple has been together since they were 15 years old, and are now in their late 60’s! Imagine the loss he is facing.
I always answer in pretty much the same way, “…thank you; the truth is that I get so much back…”
Today, I decided to think about what it really is that I get back! Here are a few highlights:
Exhaustion—was the first thing that popped into my mind, so I have to acknowledge that this is true and can be challenging.
Wonder—that grieving people can look outside of their own sadness and find the energy to show appreciation.
Humility—from witnessing the end, or beginning, of the ‘circle of life’; a mysterious process that is completely out of our hands.
Gratitude—for the opportunity to care for people who, after living an entire life, whether it was 5 days or 95 years, are spending their final days in the place where I work.
Hope—for humanity; because here in the inpatient unit, love is what sustains our patients, families, pets, plants, and staff, and there is plenty to go around.
Weight gain—from enjoying all the food that people send and bring in.
Hospice work is difficult, and rewarding, in so many ways, and I am beginning to understand what a gift this opportunity has been for me.