Verbatim: Family and Time Essay

Words: 1955
Pages: 8

Care of the Dying and Bereaved
Verbatim Report of a Pastoral Visit

Chaplain

Your Initials: GR
Location of Visit: At UT’s home
Time of Visit: 1430
Date of Visit: May 29, 2013
Date Written: June 8, 2013

Preliminary Data

Age: 88
Gender: Female
Religious Preference: Seventh-day Adventist
# of Prior Visits: 3
Referral: Y/N? N

Initial Observations/Facts

My initial visit with UT was a couple of months ago when my husband and I were approached to help with the relocation of a bed to make room for a hospice bed.
During the first visit as we were introduced to the couple, I became aware that the patient sent home to die with hospice is a retired pastor with the Seventh-day Adventist

P10: It just hurts so much, and once everyone leaves its just me and all these memories. It’s silly; I have been blessed with so many wonderful years with H, but feel robbed of my time with him.

C11: I don’t think it silly at all. I think it’s beautiful that you would want to spend more time with your husband. I see you as a role model for all couples, especially ones married to pastors. I know that it can be tough at times but the two of you by God’s grace made it through.

P11: Enjoy your husband and don’t take time for granted. Loneliness is very dark.

C12: Tell me about your loneliness? What does it look like for you?

P12: Loneliness is waking up alone, spending your whole day alone, and going to bed alone. After you have spent every waking moment with your soul mate living without him is dark.

C13: I am so sorry. What do you think you can do to move out of this darkness?

P13: I live in this wonderful community where there are always activities going on. I guess I could be sociable and join some fun activities. They have invited me; I just haven’t had the courage to go alone.

C14: That’s understandable, from what you are telling me you are showing appropriate emotions for one who’s loved one has died.

P14: It really helps talking about this with you. I appreciate you stopping by.

C15: I am happy to check in with you every couple of weeks if you