It has been one year since my father passed away in our family home from auto-immune illness complications that eventually resulted in a stroke and heart failure. The week prior to his death, he was admitted to Portland Adventist in the stroke unit. He was considerably uncomfortable because his body rejected all medications that could ease his pain or help prolong his life via surgery.
Our family took turns keeping my father company in his room while very skilled and compassionate doctors and staff devised a plan to help us all transition to the inevitable passing. One late night, I was sitting with my father when a nurse appeared to relieve another nurse. We immediately noticed her soft and calm demeanor and learned that she was from the new-born unit, but it was slow that night, so she volunteered to help in the stroke unit. It was such a blessing for me and my father.
My father had a quick wit and great sense of humor, but both were waning with the pain, and he grew impatient with some of his attendants. He was instantly pleased with Sharon, realizing he could banter with her. She and I hit it off immediately as well. The two of us managed to bring out my father's humor and to keep his mind off his condition for a while.
Sharon had the most amazing ability to make our scenario instantly calm. It was well after midnight, and I was very tired, but Sharon's attitude, alertness, and fun personality helped me to rally. Sharon was so gentle with my father and so interested in his life and he in hers.
Sharon went above and beyond when my father insisted he needed to get outside for air. She wasn't daunted by this request unlike others during his hospital stay, and between the two of us, we managed to get his coat on, maneuver him to a wheelchair, and proceed to the elevator, only to learn he had to use the facilities again! We all laughed when we teased him about "going before the road trip," and I know this exchange cheered him up. We eventually made our way outside, where Sharon patiently stood with us, sharing stories of her life and work, until my father was ready to go back inside.
Once back home, my father talked about Sharon often. He was only alive for another week, but in that time, he and I sat outside discussing many things, and Sharon was one of them. My father had a great appreciation for the selfless care of others, regarding them as stewards of humanity, both rare and surprising. He was correct about Sharon. Not only did she help my father both physically and mentally, but unknowingly helped me a great deal. It was so relieving to be humorous in those late hours, and to be with another person who had skills I did not possess, experience with similar situations, patience, and a self-assured calm that translated to me. It was heartwarming that she related to my father like another child.
Sharon was a vital part of our family's team, helping us to transition into our new normal where we had no former experience. As I look back on the events of one year ago, I am deeply saddened, but deeply grateful for the help of so many, including Sharon.
She is truly a remarkable health care provider with an extraordinary talent for compassionate care. Portland Adventist is fortunate she is a part of your staff, and my family was fortunate and blessed that she shared her time, skills, humor, and compassion with us.