When I arrived at Sanford Medical Center, I knew my Grandma was ill and likely in the last stage of life. Being the only nurse in my family, I knew I had to have a very hard conversation with my Grandpa and family about Grandma and loving her during this time. My Grandpa was exhausted. Abby Gaspari, our nurse, saw and cared for our family and Grandma during this time.

Although Grandma was an overflow into the ICU, Abby gave our family what we needed: compassion, expert knowledge, and time. She kindly answered my Grandpa’s questions and reassured us that Grandma would be in good hands at Ava’s House.

She gave my grandpa comfort items such as lotion, mouth moisturizer, and socks because he was worried nothing would be there. Her reassurance and knowledge helped my Grandpa make the hardest decision he could. He was able to love her, be with her, and pray with her for her last week. This healed him and provided her comfort.

Thank you for making my family feel cared for. Her actions and words are not unnoticed.