"Where I Belong"

Dreams and aspirations can sometimes come from strange places. For example, my dream of becoming a Hospice nurse emerged from the death of my grandmother, Frances Brown (pictured left holding Sherri as an infant). She was an amazing, Godly lady. She made little doll clothes for my Barbies, read to me, and baked me caramel cakes.

She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer initially; and after about a year of chemotherapy things were looking up for her. She spent the next year enjoying her life. She went shopping, on church outings, out to eat with friends, and, of course, spoiled all of her grandchildren. Sadly, things did not stay wonderful for long. She was again diagnosed with cancer; this time in her stomach. Due to the anguish she had endured during her last round of chemotherapy, she chose quality of life over quantity.

Hospice of Randolph County came in to provide end-of-life care to my "Nanny". Everyone that came out to visit with Nanny was compassionate and warm-hearted. They were devoted to providing her with the best care, keeping her dignity intact, and managing her pain and symptoms so she would be comfortable. My family was so grateful, and it really made an impression on me at the age of 15.

The most miraculous event was my Nanny’s death. The room was filled with family and an atmosphere of love; just like my grandmother wanted. She had been unresponsive for most of the day; however, she opened her eyes to see her new great-great grandchild that had arrived straight from the hospital. Soon thereafter, she looked around the room at her children and grandchildren and spoke her last sweet words, "I love you." We all knew it was meant for each of us. Then she closed her eyes and went to be with Jesus.

Had it not been for Hospice she would have passed away in a hospital without the warmth and familiarity of home. She was able to die in the very house that she lived in, surrounded by fond memories of my granddaddy. The house where she raised her children, and in the room in which her youngest two daughters were married. To this day when I walk into that living room it touches my heart when I think of how she left that room and went straight into the presence of God for the reward she so richly deserved.

I grew up and graduated nursing school; which was not an easy task I assure you. I worked on a progressive coronary unit at a hospital for four and a half years. One day as I was looking through the Sunday paper I saw the Hospice ad and decided that it was time to go where I belong. Luckily they agreed and gave me the job I had always wanted. I’ve only been at Hospice of Randolph for seven months, but it feels like I’ve come home. I truly feel blessed to provide end-of-life care to our patients at Hospice.

Death is not meant to be scary or completely encompassed with sadness. We educate the patients and their families to ease their fears. We do all we can to show compassion and provide comfort during the last days of a person’s life.

I believe God guides us at Hospice of Randolph to where we are most needed, and I am proud to be a member of such an awesome team. I’d like to think that my Nanny is looking down; well-pleased with me for what I’ve accomplished and where I am today.

-Written by Sheri Shelton, RN

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