home

Golden Light of Grace

October 1, 2024 | Brian Parman, Director, The Point & Pavilion

by Brian Parman, Director of The Point and Pavilion

The golden hour, that magical time just before dawn, has always held a special place in my heart. It’s a time of tranquility and reflection, when the world seems to hold its breath in anticipation of the rising sun. For me, it’s a sacred space where I can connect with God, offering gratitude for the day ahead and finding solace in the peacefulness of the moment.

But the golden hour has taken on a deeper meaning for me in recent times. Witnessing the incredible care provided by our hospice team for my mother has given me a profound appreciation for their selfless dedication and compassion. Their unwavering commitment to ensuring her comfort and well-being has been a source of immense strength for our family.

I’ve been particularly moved by the servant leadership I’ve observed among the critical care nurses. Their ability to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity, their empathy for my mother’s suffering, and their tireless efforts to provide the best possible care have been truly inspiring. It’s a testament to the power of human connection and the profound impact that a compassionate touch can have.

One of the most poignant aspects of our hospice experience has been the realization of the breadth and depth of the services they offer. From providing essential medical equipment like beds, mattresses, and oxygen concentrators to covering the cost of comfort medications, hospice has been a lifeline for our family. But perhaps most importantly, they have provided love, comfort, and compassion around the clock.

Even in the darkest hours of the night, there was always someone by my mother’s side. Their presence was a source of comfort and reassurance, reminding us that she is not alone. And their unwavering commitment to ensuring her comfort allowed us to focus on spending quality time with her and making the most of the time we had left together.

Throughout this journey, we have embraced the motto “Today is a good day for a good day.” This simple phrase has become a mantra for us, a reminder to focus on the positive and to find joy in the present moment. It has helped us to appreciate the small things, to cherish the time we have together, and to find gratitude even in the midst of sorrow.

I hope that my experience can inspire others to learn more about the benefits of hospice care and to make their wishes known. By understanding the compassionate and comprehensive services that hospice provides, we can ensure that our loved ones receive the care they deserve in their final days. And by celebrating life together, we can create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

The pastoral care provided by each member of the team, but especially the chaplain who ministered to mom each week and came by daily to shepherd her and remind her of God’s love and forgiveness, has been invaluable. The atmosphere of joy created by Carolyn, whose love of Dolly Parton and country gospel was shared by mom Shirley, who helped to make her journey lighter, has made this complicated, emotion-filled experience even more beautiful.

The beauty of this complicated and emotionally-filled experience lies in the incredible compassion and kindness shown by everyone involved. From the medical professionals to the pastoral care team, each person played a vital role in making my mother’s final days as peaceful and meaningful as possible. Their selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to her well-being will forever be an inspiration to me.

I am so grateful for the care that my mother received from our hospice team. Their love, support, and compassion made a profound difference in our lives, and I will be forever grateful for their kindness.

Go Back