We received a call from Dad on Thursday letting us know he had been diagnosed with cancer and was being moved to the VA Hospital in Portland. I spoke with him Saturday, and more tests revealed the cancer was aggressive, non-treatable, and that he probably had six months or less to live. On Monday night, he called again and said he might not make it to Friday. We all booked rushed flights out, visited with him on Tuesday, and he passed away Wednesday afternoon. It was an absolute calamity, and we struggled to sort out the logistics.

We honestly had no idea what to expect as we headed up to the 3rd floor and must have been a shell-shocked bunch. The kind staff of the ICU helped us navigate this most difficult endeavor with grace. You all displayed such graciousness to both the patient and his family, provided comfort to both in equal measure.

I’d especially like to call out Nurse Mel, who worked closely with Dad on Tuesday, his final day of consciousness. You truly put Dad’s well-being above everything else, and I am extremely grateful that you delayed letting us see him while he was meeting with the chaplain. I credit that conversation and your remarkable foresight in recognizing its importance as the reason he was in such a good place emotionally and spiritually. Indeed, I spoke with P as my father passed, and he came away deeply affected by their conversation. He said his biggest takeaway was Dad’s final outlook, “I know where I’m going, but I sure don’t want to yet.” The genuine compassion you showed to both my father and my family was profoundly moving, and we are so thankful for your level-headedness and your heart.

My father was proud of his Air Force service his entire life, and in his final days spoke highly of the care the VA provided him. I can absolutely echo his sentiments for the continuous comfort your team provided my family in our darkest time. What you do for our fellow military families is honorable, and very deeply appreciated.