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Enrichments of Humanity
A personal experience by Kris Chancellor, Legacy House

I treasure experiences that cannot be explained more profoundly than by the mere acceptance that mystical occurrences are reality. The beauty of sharing conscious events that are beyond logical development enriches humanity. To visualize these events that thoroughly challenge our idea of conceptual truth is an exercise in the potentiality of our ultimate self. With these stories I ask that you vicariously realize the impact that we indeed are spiritual beings having a human experience.

I was working as a nurse at the University Hospital in Ann Arbor on an adult hematology disorder unit. On a particular shift I was asked if I would transfer to the pediatric unit. One of my patients was a three year old little girl with the diagnosis of ALL (Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia). The goal for eradication of leukemia stem cell was never realized. This precious child never achieved complete remission during induction therapy. Staff informed me that her mother had been at her child's bedside for three days as the little one lay in a comatose state. I had just entered the room when suddenly this tiny fragile body actually sat up and pointed to the foot of her bed. "Mommy, Grandpa wants me to go with him." Her mother replied with tears streaming down her cheeks, "it's ok precious, go with Grandpa". The child lay down, closed her eyes and stopped breathing. Death was anticipated, but this avenue was dramatic. The mother's voice was just above a whisper when she explained that she was pregnant with her child when her father passed away. The spiritual awareness that death is not the end, that no one ever truly dies, that life and love are eternal, embraced and uplifted this woman. Witnessing this remarkable true story touched me at the deepest level.

While working for HMC Crisis Care, I met a daughter of the patient I was caring for. Once the patient's pain was under control he was able to sleep without interruption. During a peaceful time frame, this daughter would share stories of her life with her father. Her father had spoken of his excitement to see his "Purple Princess" and did not demonstrate fear of dying. This reference was the seven year old granddaughter (child of the daughter that had been vigilant at his bedside) who had gone to heaven the years previous. I relayed endearments expressed by this man who spoke of his "Purple Princess" frequently. The patient had a look of awe when he would speak of this loved one. He had started to tell me a story about her 7th birthday party and filling the swimming pool. His enthusiasm overwhelmed him and he was never able to finish the whole story. "I am sorry to give you just a preview, I 'm sure my daughter would love to finish. It is time for me to return to my dreams." With hearing his invitation, the daughter took my hand and began telling me the story. The child wanted a family swimming pool. When she died following an accident, her family vowed to continue with their pool plans in honor of their daughter. The day that the pool was filled would have been this child's seventh birthday. The pool company could not explain why the water in the pool was purple. Water samples were taken, still not explanation. The grandfather understood why this had taken place. The child's favorite color was purple. This gripping saga assures us that our deceased loved ones are still very much in our lives.

Letter to the editor of The Ocala Star Banner: July 13, 2009

My father-in-law passed away recently. My wife and I miss him. We feel fortunate to have had him living with us when he died. It is a "special time" for family to be with a loved one in those closing weeks, days and hours. It is a time for reliving fun times and coming to terms with disagreements we've had over the years.

Our dad had nothing to apologize for because he was such a man of integrity and grace.

This "final phase" with Dad was made possible by Hospice of Marion County. When Dad was diagnosed with cancer and given less than six months to live, our hearts sank as we tried to consider life without Dad. Would he need to be hospitalized or go to a nursing home? Could he be at home? So many questions.

We immediately turned to Hospice for help in sorting out the issues of ending a life with dignity.

After a short stay at a rehab center, Dad came home. Before Dad left rehab, Hospice had developed a "care plan" in consultation with our family. Upon his arrival at home, we were set up with everything needed to help him get around within the home. Someone came twice a week to bathe him, and a nurse came weekly to "take his vitals" and spent time with us answering the myriad questions concerning his needs. She even provided us with hugs when needed.

Hospice care evolved over the weeks as my father-in-law's condition worsened. They were there every step of the way, including that early morning phone call when he had passed in his sleep. They made the basic arrangements of calling the funeral home. They made the pronouncement of death. We sat in amazement at the calm and reassuring manner of the Hospice nurse who put us at ease that morning.

Hospice showed us how to care for a person with dignity and to celebrate their life before they pass. Thank you, Hospice of Marion County, for helping another family.

Don Wyrick
Ocala

My mother was a hospice patient under the care of your organization for nearly 3 years until her passing at the Oakhurst Nursing Center. During that time, I was extremely satisfied with and appreciative of the excellent and compassionate care she received from her nurse and her CNA. The nurse was on top of every aspect of her care and medical treatment and coordinated effectively with the doctor to ensure my mother received quality treatment that I know prolonged her life.

As I live in New Jersey, the nurse kept me informed of my mother’s condition on a regular basis and during my visits to Oakhurst always met with me to review her progress. The CNA was also a friendly and positive influence in my mother’s care. I would also like to commend the other members of the hospice team who were always there for her. Again, let me say how much I am grateful for all that hospice has done to make my mother’s last three years as happy and comfortable as possible.

Sincerely,

Gloria Behrens

I thank you for all the beautiful materials I have received after 6 months. I am on my way to recovery. Thank you for all your help in my husband’s passing and in making my grief a little less of a burden to bear.

Sincerely,

Beverly A. Reed

I speak for all my family and friends when I say we felt like we were all a part of “A Gathering of Angels” in the recent death of our mother. Your hospice group was that “Gathering of Angels.” From Peggy Soucy’s visit at the hospital, and everyone at Tuscany House, our fears and dismay was met with comfort and assurance that all was well. We were in good hands.

I could write a book on our experience, your attention to the smallest detail, just please know Hospice of Marion County will always be sweet words to us. Thank you is so inadequate. If you ever need anyone to speak up for you, just call me. You are all wonderful.

Much love and God’s riches and Blessings to you all,

Joy Calhoun & Family