As I sit down to put my thoughts into words after a full week of training and orientation. I find myself on the cusp of a new chapter in my life—a chapter that is both daunting and incredibly rewarding.
Today, I am thrilled to share the news that I have accepted a position as a nurse at the Hospice of Wichita Falls. The journey to this point has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but it feels like my "hospice journey" has come full circle, bringing with it a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
The decision to embark on this path was not an easy one. The mere thought of stepping into a role where I would be dealing with the complexities of life's end was intimidating. However, my personal experience with Hospice of Wichita Falls played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective. It was a journey marked by the unwavering support of incredible individuals—Nina, Jeannette, and the entire hospice team.
The journey began with the unimaginable: navigating through the final moments of my own son’s life. Our family found ourselves in the compassionate care of Hospice of Wichita Falls during the challenging times with Jordan. What was an overwhelmingly painful experience turned into something unexpectedly beautiful. Nina and Jeannette, with their empathy and professionalism, not only eased our pain but also helped us find moments of beauty in the midst of the profound sadness, in not just my experience but the experience of 43 other people that got to be a part of Jordan’s homecoming. Their dedication, coupled with the holistic approach of the hospice team, transformed the process into a profound and meaningful experience for everyone that night. It wasn’t until months later that I experienced the true essence of hospice care—an unwavering commitment to providing comfort, dignity, and support to both the patient and our entire family.
Now, as I take on the role of a nurse at Hospice of Wichita Falls, I am humbled and still find myself pinching to ensure that I am not dreaming. The opportunity to be a part of this ministry feels like a calling—one that beckons me to contribute to the legacy of compassionate care that touched our lives so deeply.
The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging. The emotions that come with end-of-life care are complex, and each day will bring its own set of trials, which I will count it all joy. Yet, in the face of difficulty, I am fortified by the knowledge that I am not alone. After just a week of training I am confidant that I am part of a team—a family, really—that understands the importance of empathy, compassion, and the profound impact that genuine care can have on those facing life's final journey.
As I step into this new role, I carry with me the lessons learned during my own family's hospice experience. It is a unique perspective that fuels my determination to make a difference in the lives of others. The hospice journey has come full circle, and I am ready to embrace it, armed with the understanding that even in the most challenging moments, there is an opportunity to bring comfort, peace, and moments of beauty.
So here's to new beginnings, to embracing the unknown, and to being a part of something much larger than myself. I am filled with gratitude, excited for the journey ahead, and ready to make a meaningful impact—one patient, one family, and one moment at a time.
Just shy of five years ago I wrote an entry about our personal hospice journey in hopes to educate others, especially about Pediatric Hospice: http://meaganandjeremykirk.blogspot.com/2019/03/when-being-strong-isnt-enough-unspoken.html?m=1
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