FOREWORD

INTRODUCTION

THEMANYFACESOFJESUSCHISt.FrancisHealth,Breckenridge,Minnesota

REMEMBERINGMARTINCHIMemorialHospital,Chattanooga,Tennessee

ITSTARTSWITHFAITHKentuckyOneHealth,OurLadyofPeaceHospital,Louisville,Kentucky

ALASTSMILEPenrose-St.FrancisHealthServices,ColoradoSprings,Colorado

WILLIAM’SSTORYCHISt.Luke’sHealthSystem,Houston,Texas

CHANCEENCOUNTERCHIMercyHospital,DevilsLake,NorthDakota

ONTHESHOULDERSOFGIANTSCHIMercyMedicalCenter,Williston,NorthDakota

WHOSENTYOU?CHIFranciscanHealth,Tacoma,Washington

ITTAKESATEAMTOHEALAPATIENTCHIFranciscanHealthSt.ElizabethHospital,Enumclaw,Washington

ANEIGHBORINNEEDKentuckyOneHealth,FlagetMemorialHospitalNewHavenPrimaryCareOffice,NewHaven,Kentucky

WHYDOYOUWORKHERE?CatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice,Englewood,Colorado

UNCLEBILLKentuckyOneHealth,FlagetMemorialHospital,Bardstown,Kentucky

LIFEWELLLIVEDCHIHealthGoodSamaritan,Kearney,Nebraska

FAMILYISNOTMADEFROMFLESHANDBLOODSt.CatherineHospital,GardenCity,Kansas

ADAYINTHELIFEOFAHEALTHCOACHCHISt.VincentInfirmary,LittleRock,Arkansas

GIVEGODTHEGLORYKentuckyOneHealth,Sts.Mary&ElizabethHospital,Louisville,Kentucky

THENON-STOPFLIGHTTOSEATTLECHIHealthMercyHospital,CouncilBluffs,Iowa

ANGELSAMONGUSKentuckyOneHealth,Sts.Mary&ElizabethHospital,Louisville,Kentucky

THEGOODBYESONGCHISt.AnthonyHospital,Pendleton,Oregon

PATIENT1111SaintClare’sHospital,Boonton,NewJersey

APRAYERSHAWLCHIHealthatHome,WestChester,Ohio

ASPECIALPLACEINMYHEARTCHIHealthGoodSamaritan,Kearney,Nebraska

JUSTBECatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice,Englewood,Colorado

DJ’SSTORYCHIHealthAlegentCreightonHealthatHomeHospice,Omaha,Nebraska

UNCEASINGGRATITUDECHIHealthMercyCouncilBluffs,CouncilBluffs,Iowa

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Eversinceourparticipatingcongregationsformedthisorganization,CatholicHealthInitiativeshasgonethroughcyclesofrenewalandre-creationtoimproveandexpandinwaysthatmakeitpossibletoprovidebetterhealthtotheindividualsandcommunitiesweserve.

Thecurrentre-creationofCHI–ourpreparationfortheNextEraofHealthyCommunities–isthemosturgentandessentialwehaveeverexperienced.We’vehadtoreconsidereveryaspectofhowCHIcreatesanddelivershealth;and,we’reexcitedaboutthepossibilitiestoexpandtheexpressionofourministry.

Howwillweachievetrueinnovationinthedeliveryofhealthinthiseraandbeyond?TotakefulladvantageoftheskillsandcreativitythatallofusbringtoCHI,wemuststretchthelimitsofourimaginations,pray,andletourmindswander,justasLisaKelly–ourcolleagueatCHIHealth,Omaha,Nebraska–expressesbeautifullyinthefollowingsacredstory.

Can You Imagine?Whenwesitinprayerorreflection,ourmindsmaywander.That’sokay.OurmindsareoneofthemostpowerfultoolswecanusetofindGod.

SometimesyourmindcanwanderbacktofindGodinthemomentsofdayspast:memoriesmade,momentsoffullness,secondsthatcaughtyoubysurprise.

But,whathappenswhenyouletyourmindwanderforward?

Imagineanelderlygentlemanwalkingintoaclinic,hiswifeofmanyyearsbyhisside,wonderingiftheyoungdoctorwillbeabletotakehispainaway.Imaginehowweshallcareforhim.

Imaginetheyounggirlwaitinginthetherapist’soffice,nervouslychewinghernails,desperatetofindawaytomanagethethoughtsinherhead.Imaginehowweshallcareforher.

Imaginetheexhaustedfamilysittinginanemergencydepartmentwaitingroom.Theyarewaitingfornews,waitingforhope,waitingforsomeonetheylovetobeokay.Imaginehowweshallcareforthem.

Imaginehealthcareadministratorssittingaroundatable,preparingforameeting,crunchingthenumbersyetagain,tenaciouslyfindingawaytodotherightthing.Imaginehowtheyshallcareforeachother.

Godisinourimaginations,callingustoseewhatispossibleevenwhenitmeanstakingarisk,inspiringustobecreativeandseewithneweyes,affirmingwhatweknowisrightevenwhenitisn’teasy.

Imaginehowyouwanttoprovidecareandhowyouwanttobecaredfor.Imaginehowyouwantacareteamtoworktogether.

Imaginehowyouwantourpatientsandstafftofeeleverydaywhentheyleaveus.Perhapsitisn’tjustyourimaginationafterall.

Table of Contents

Understandingthedifficultiesfacedbythepeopleweserveisanimportantpartofwhatwedo.Theirdifficultiesmightbeacauseoreffectofanillness,suchaspainorfatigue;or,theymayberelatedtolifesituations,suchaspovertyorbrokenfamilyrelationships.Whilewecan’talwaysremoveormendthesedifficulties,wecanacknowledgethem,becompassionate,anddeliverthecareandserviceseachindividualneedstoimprovetheirhealthandwell-being.

AllofusatCHImustdealwiththedifficultiesofprovidinghealthcareandhealthserviceswithinanindustry-wide,imperfectdeliverysystem.Likeotherprovidersofhealth,wearepressuredtodomorewithless;toachievemeasuredqualityimprovementswhilereducinggrowthinspending;andtoovercomeresistancetochange.Wehavebeenanchoredinhospitalcare;now,wearetransformingthisministryintotoanintegrateddeliverysystemthatoffershealthcareservices,programsandproductsthatarecoordinatedandareavailableintraditionalandnontraditionalsettings.ThankstothededicationofallwhoparticipateintheministryofCHI,wearemakinggreatprogress,yetarebeingcalledtodoevenmore.

Thechallengesfacedbyourpatients,ourcommunitiesandourorganizationsmaymakeithardsometimestorememberwhywechosehealthcare,orwhyitchoseus.OneofthereasonswepublishSacred StoriesistoremindusthatweareinapositiontobeGod’shandsonEarth.CHIpromotesaworkplacespiritualityinwhichwecancomeclosertobeingawareofourGodworkingwithusandthroughus,eveninourmostordinaryactivities.Wecan’talways“cure”thedifficultiesoflife,butwecanuseourtalentsandresourcestoenterthechaosofothers,easetheirburdens,andcreatespaceforhealingtobegin.Sacred Storiesisareminderthatwearewelcometobringourspirituality–whateveritsfoundation–toworkwithuseachday.

PleaseenjoythiseditionofSacred Storiesanditsexpressionsofthelivedspiritualityfoundinourtraditionalandnontraditional,nonhospitalworkplaces.Weinviteyoutoturnthepagesandreadthestoriesaboutthelargerspiritualdimensionofthecareweprovide–andthedifferenceitmakes.

KevinE.Lofton,FACHEChiefExecutiveOfficer

ThomasR.Kopfensteiner,STDExecutiveVicePresident,Mission

Suggested Sacred Text

Sacred Story

Questions for Reflection

The Many Faces of JesusThe Many Faces of JesusThe Many Faces of Jesus

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Suggested Sacred TextThen the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ — Matthew 25:34-36

Sacred StoryOnedayatmyjob,Iwastransferredtoworkattheextendedcarefacility;anareadifferentfromoneInormallyworkin.Iwasaccustomedtotheacutecareenvironment,butthiswouldbedifferent:Iwouldbecaringforpeopleinahealthfacilitythatservesastheirhome.Iwasoutofmycomfortzone.Ithought,“HowamIgoingtomusteruptheconfidencethattheresidentsexpect?”

Iwalkedalongthehall,orientingmyselfandnotingtheresidents’names.Somewereintheirdiningareas,waitingfortheirmeals.Otherslaidweaklyintheirbeds,gazingatmeasIwentby.Then,itdawnedonme:theseweresomeofthemanyfacesofJesus.Andwiththat,Istartedmywork.

Icameacrossaladyfrommyoldneighborhood;Ihelpedherbatheanddressedherhealingwound.Anotherresidenthadworkedasaclerkinalocalgrocerystore,alongtimeago.Iwassurprisedtoseeher,andhappytofinallyknowhername.IcaredforothersIrecognizedasformerbusdrivers,acquaintancesIhadpreviouslymetinthehospital,andparentsofschoolmates.

IsawafacethatIrememberedfrommyfirstdaysofworkatthehospital.Thisladyhadworkedinthelaundry.Shehadgivenmethegiftofherwonderfullaughterandfriendlygreetings,asshedideveryone

shemet.Therewerenojoyousgreetingsthisday.Instead,therewasonlyavacantstareandaphasia,leftoversfromastrokeanddementia.Ifedher;shedidn’tcommunicate,butonlyopenedandclosedhermouthtoeat.Igrieved,knowingImightonlyhearhervoiceinmymemorynow.Ihopedthatmemorywouldn’tfade.

Duringthatday,IalsocameacrosssomeofthebestWhistplayersaround,whowereformerresidentsofanassistedlivingcenterthatIvisitedfrequently.Sadly,theytoohadsuccumbedtotheirillnessesandwerenolongerabletoplay.Iwasevenabletovisitwithaformerclassmatewho,duetountimelymisfortune,camefartoosoontotheextendedcarefacility.

Icaredforaoncestrongman,whosetremorsnolongerallowedhimtoevenfeedhimself.Hehadbeenamanofauthority,andnowwastotallydependentuponothers.Hecarriedthiscrosswithdignity.

Asthedayended,IwalkedhomeandthoughtaboutonefinalgroupofthefacesofJesus:thosewhocarefortheresidentseveryday.IhopedI’dhelpedtomakethedayabetteroneforallofthem.And,IrealizedthatIdidn’tneedtomusterupconfidenceasIhadthoughtatthestartoftheday.WhatIneededwastoseethefacesofJesusandrecognizethat,ascaregivers,wecanbethefacesofJesus,too.

DARLYNWEBER,RNCHISt.FrancisHealthBreckenridge,Minnesota

Questions for ReflectionWhen have you seen the face of Christ in those you serve or with whom you work?

How will you reverence the dignity of those you encounter today?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextBlessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. — Matthew 5:4

Sacred StoryMartinwasapatient,arepeatvisitorwithseveralhospitaladmissions.Eachtimehevisited,Iwouldpokemyheadinhisroom,pullupachairandchat.Hewouldwarmlytellmestoriesabouthisfamilyandfriends.Helovedtotalkabouthisgrandchildrenandwouldshowmetheirlatestandgreatestpictures.

Helivedinanapartmentcomplexforseniorsandwasthetaxidriverfortheladiesinthebuilding.Hewouldtakethemtotheirappointmentsandtorunerrands.Hewasalwaysthoughtfulandtookcareofthoseheloved,butashishospitaladmissionsbegantoincreasehehadtocutbackonhelpingothers.Itwasdifficulttowatchhimstruggle.WehadbecomebuddiesandIhadgrowntocaredeeplyforhim.Ashecontinuedtogrowweaker,Iwouldsearchhimoutjustforthereassurancethathewasstillhanginginthereandfightinghisdisease.

Aboutaweekafterhislastadmission,hecalledmeathome.HesaidhewasthinkingaboutmeandwantedmetoknowhowmuchImeanttohim,andhowgratefulhewasformycare.Beforehehungupthephone,hetoldmethathelovedme–heloved“me!”ItwasthelasttimeIspokewithhim.Hepassedawaytheverynextday.

Myheartwasbroken.IknewIwouldmissMartin,andIdon’tthinkheevenknewwhatanamazinggifthehadgivenme.Iwilltreasurehismemoryknowingthatheinadvertentlymademetakestockofmyblessingsandtofocusonthem,insteadofonthemessesinlife.Martinwillalwaysholdaspecialplaceinmyheart.

Asmuchasyoutrynottoshowfavoritismorbecomeattachedtopatients,itstillhappenssometimes.But,

evenwhenyoubreakdownbarrierstocare,thebattlesarenotalwaysvictorious.Itisnotalwaysabouthappyendings.Sometimesthisisagut-wrenchingjobthatjustmakesyourhearthurt–reallyhurt.Wehavetostayfocusedoncaringforpatientsandtheirfamilies,knowingthatattimestheonlythingwecandoisbethereforthemandholdtheirhands.Andsometimes,whilecaringforothers,youfindthattheyarecaringforyou,too.

ALICIAIERYCHIMemorialHospitalChattanooga,Tennessee

Questions for ReflectionWe don’t always know when a seemingly insignificant thing we do has deep meaning to another. Can you recall a time when you did something for someone, and found out later that it touched them deeply? How did you feel?

Can you recall a time when someone did something small for you that you found particularly meaningful? Did you get a chance to share the significance with that person? How did you feel?

Remembering MartinRemembering Martin Remembering Martin

“I don’t think he even knew what an amazing gift he had given me.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextFor you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised...But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. — Hebrews 10:36- 11:1

Sacred StoryWorkinginmentalandbehavioralhealthcarecanbeaprettythanklessjob.Therearetimeswhenweneedtoberemindedofwhywehavedevotedourlivestohelpingthesevulnerableindividuals.Amanda’sstoryservesasareminderforme.

Amandawasateenagerwhenhermomsenthertousforhelp.Shehadbeenlivingonthestreetsformorethanayear,usingdrugsandgettingintotrouble.TodescribeAmandaasanti-socialwouldbeanunderstatement.Shewasoverweight,dressedinblack,keptherfacecoveredwithherhair,refusedtoengagewithorspeaktoanyone,andwasangryattheworld:soangrythatshedidnotseeanyreasontoliveanymore.

Wehadtoconvincehertobelievethattherearereasonstolive;but,wheredoyoubeginwhentherearesomanylayerstounpeel?Westartedwithfaith.

Theinitialweeksandmonthswerechallenging.WespentmanydaysandnightscounselingAmanda,tryingtotalkherthroughherdetoxandhercravingfordrugs,tryingtogethertostarttolikeherselfagain.

Eventually,Amandatookstepstowardre-engagingherfaith.ShebegantoattendchurchonSundays,andsheattendeda12-stepprogramledbyoneofthepriestsonstaff.

Onceinawhile,wecaughtaglimpseofhappinesswhenasmallsmilelitupAmanda’sface.Shestarted

toreconnectwithherfamily.Shebegantoexerciseandeatright(shelostmorethan200pounds).Shecutherhair,worebrighterclothes,andherfaithgrewstronger.

Amandabecamewellenoughtogobacktoschool.Inthefollowingyears,weheardabouthersuccesses,includingbeingelectedtogivetheclassspeechonSeniorDay.Iwasgracedtobethereandhearherspeak.Shesaidthatshewouldbedeadifnotfortheimportantpeopleinherlife,especiallythosewhocaredforherinherdarkestdays.Icouldnothelpbutcrywhenshetoldtheaudienceabouttheimportanceofhavingfaithinyourself,familyandGod,andtonevergiveup.

IstillkeepincontactwithAmanda.Sheisalmost30yearsoldnow,withtwobeautifullittlegirls.Shestillthanksusforturningherlifearoundandgivinghersomeofherbestmemories.

Inthislineofwork,amidstallthescience,faithissometimesallyouhave;plus,thehopethatanotherAmandawillcomealongandtouchyourlife.

ERICGROSSKentuckyOneHealthOurLadyofPeaceHospitalLouisville,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionDo you remember someone who nurtured your soul and protected you from self-destruction?

What is needed now for the care of your soul and the soul of the person standing before you?

It Starts With FaithIt Starts With FaithIt Starts With Faith

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextBut the souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them. They seemed, in the view of the foolish, to be dead; and their passing away was thought an affliction and their going forth from us, utter destruction. But they are in peace. — Wisdom 2:23-3:9

Sacred StoryIspentaweekworkingwithMr.Feathers,amaninhismid-40s.Severalofhisinternalorganswereshuttingdown;hewassufferingfromseveralmajorillnessessimultaneously.

WhenIfirstvisitedhim,hewasinterriblepain,eventhoughhewasonthemaximumlevelofmorphine.Hewasslowlydying,inagony.Hegrippedhisblanketswithwhite-knuckledfingers.Ilistenedtohislaboredbreathing,raspinginandout.Ilookedintohiseyesanddidnotknowifhesawmeornot.InthefewmomentsthatIsawhimlucid,hisbrowcreasedandhelookedpanicked.Ilaidmyhandonhishandandprayedforhealth,orpeace,oranendtopain.Ifelthelplessinthemidstofsomuchpainandsuffering.

Iwenttoseehimeachday.Eachday,helookedworse,andmyprayersgrewshorterandquieter.Eachday,heseemedmorewithdrawnintohisownprivatehell.Attheendoftheweek,Ienteredhisroomandsat,listeningtohispainedbreathing.I’mnotsurehowlongIsatthere,butafterawhileIdidnothearanything.IstoodupandlookedatMr.Feathers.InsteadoftherictusofpainthatIhadseenbefore,hisfacehadrelaxedandhewassmiling.

Ididnothurry;IwasstunnedbywhatIhadexperienced.Iwalkedslowlydowntothenurse’sstationandmumbledthatMr.Feathershaddied.Thenurse’seyeswentwidemomentarily,butthenshenodded,understanding.Wewalkeddowntohisroom

togetherandstartedtheprocessthattookhisbodyawayfromthatroom.

Itwasapowerfulmoment,tobewithsomeonewhenhedied.Itwaspowerfultoseethesmileonhisfaceafterhedied,especiallycomparedtohowhehadlookedbefore,grittinghisteethagainstthepain.Ilovelifeandholddearlytoit,butwhenIlookedatthefaceofMr.Feathers,Isawhowunbearablelifehadbecomeforhim.Whenhecouldletgo,perhapshefoundsomethingbetter.Irememberhissmile,andtakeitasasignthatthereismoretoexistencethantheearthlylifethatweknow.

JASONGACKLEPenrose-St.FrancisHealthServicesColoradoSprings,Colorado

Questions for ReflectionHave you been with someone when they died? What did you experience?

Suffering is a real part of the human condition. What new meaning or wisdom have you ever gained from an experience of suffering?

A Last SmileA Last SmileA Last Smile

“...his face had relaxed, and he was

smiling.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Question for Reflection

William’s StoryWilliam’s StoryWilliam’s Story

“ The work you do... helps make God felt and seen...”

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Suggested Sacred TextMany gathered together so that there was no longer room for them, not even around the door, and he preached the word to them. They came bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him. After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. — Mark 2:2-4

Sacred StoryWilliamwasaministerformorethan50years.Hewasknownforhisconstantsmile,compassionateservice,andcommitmenttosharingtheGospel.

Whenhewas55,Williamhadastrokethatresultedinparalysis,whichtookawayhisabilitytobeinthepulpit.However,hisministrydidnotend.Hischurchaskedhimtobeamentorforthenewpastor,abibleteacher,aboardMember,andavisitationminister.

William’sministrycontinuedforanother20years,untilhehadanotherstrokeandaheartattack.Afterthat,Williamwasministeredtoinhospicecare.BecauseofWilliam’sdeepfaith,heaskedeveryweekifhecouldgotochurch.Hissocialworker,Tara,hadtogentlyexplainthestressthatwouldresultfrombeingmovedoutofhisbedandintoacar,andthatgoingtochurchcouldcauseharmorevenhisdeath.Williampersisted;hejustknewthatifhecouldgettochurchoncemore,itwouldmakehislifecomplete.

TaradiscoveredthatoneofherrecentclientshaddonatedmoneytoMake-A-Wish,specifyingthatitwasbeusedforadulthospicepatientswhohadawish.Twoweekslater,anambulance,firecrewandhospiceteamarrivedatWilliam’shome.IttookalmosttwohoursforthemtoprepareWilliamtomovetoageriatricchairthatcouldaccommodatehisneedtorecline.Hewore

clothesforthefirsttimeinmonths,andwasespeciallyhappyaboutwearinghisshoes.

TheentireteamheadedofftoWilliam’schurch.Forthenexttwohours,Williamwasableto“sit”inhisusualspotinthesecondrow.Hewastooweaktoparticipateactively,butheknewhewasinhischurch.Attheendoftheservice,tearsstreamingdownhisface,WilliamthankedTara.

IsharethispersonalstoryaboutmyfatherasIreflectonourcaremanagersandsocialworkers.Thankyoufortheworkyoudoeverydayforourpatients.TheworkyoudotouchesonthemoreimportantthingsinlifeandhelpsmakeGodfeltandseeninourworldtoday.Whatagiftandblessingyouare.

VICKIWEBERCHISt.Luke’sHealthSystemHouston,Texas

Question for ReflectionWhen have you had an opportunity in your ministry to “think outside the box” and make an impossibility possible?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextFor to his angels he has given command about you, that they guard you in all your ways. Upon their hands they shall bear you up lest you dash your foot against a stone. — Psalm 91:11-12

Sacred StoryThreeweeksago,IwasgettingreadytoendmydaywhenIheard,“CodeBlue,ER.”ItwasthethirdtimeinasmanyweeksthatIhadbeenpromptedtorespondtoacodeblue.IcheckedintheERfirst,thenwenttotheadmissiondeskandwaitedforthefamilytoarrive.Afterashorttime,thepatient’swifecamethroughthefrontdoor.Irecognizedher,andsheme.Sheknewmynameandremindedmethatshehadworkedatourhospitalyearsago.

ItookhertotheERwaitingroomandupdatedheronherhusband’scondition,whichwascritical.Shehadnofamilytocall,butIencouragedhertocallafriend.Herfriendarrived,andIwasamazedbythestrengthofbothwomen,especiallythecomfortandinsightsofferedbythefriend.

Afterawhile,thephysiciancameouttothewaitingroomtosaythatthepatienthaddied.Ofcourse,therewasshockandsadness.Thewife’sfriendandIaccompaniedherintotheERtoseeherhusband.Inoticedthenurseinattendance–shehadlostherownhusbandtocancerafewyearsbefore.Then,thewife’sfriendtoldmethatherhusbandhaddiedinourERtraumaroomseveralyearsago.

AsImentioned,thiswasmythirdcodeblueinthreeweeks;allhadinvolvedthesuddenlossofahusband.Myhusbandhadalsodiedsuddenlyseveralyearsbefore.Beforehedied,Ihadalwaysappreciatedmylifeexperiences,andrealizedthateachonemademeabetterservantofGod.Butwhenmyhusbanddied,itfeltlikemylifehadcometoastop.Istruggledtrying

tomakesenseofwhathadhappened–the“why”ofitall.Still,IrealizedthatweareallGod’ssoldiers,eachwithourowngifts.

Thatday,IwasveryawareofthefourwomenpresentintheERandthecommonexperienceweshared.Somemightsayitwaschancethatthreeofuswhohadalreadylostourspousesweretheretoconsoleandguidethefourth.IliketothinkthatIwassentthereasoneofGod’shelpershereonEarth.

CONNIEWHITNEYCHIMercyHospitalDevilsLake,NorthDakota

Questions for ReflectionHow might the scripture passage from the Book of Psalms be applied to the widows who accompanied the woman who lost her husband through this experience?

Do you have an “angel story” of your own, when you received help or support from an unexpected source?

Chance EncounterChance EncounterChance Encounter

“I struggled to make sense of

it - the ‘why’ of it all .”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

On the Shoulders of GiantsOn the Shoulders of GiantsOn the Shoulders of Giants

“Do I have their drive, dedication

and selflessness?”

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Suggested Sacred TextSince we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. — Hebrews 12:1

Sacred StoryNinety-fouryearsagotheSistersofMercycametoWillistontostartahospital.Theyhadnobuilding,noequipment,nostaff,nostart-upfunds,andnoincomeintheforeseeablefuture.Ofcourse,theSistersknewallofthisbeforetheyboardedthetraintothewest.But,theyreasoned,“Ifwedon’tgotoWilliston,whowill?”Theyopenedahospitalinlessthanamonthandbegantrainingnursessoonafterthat.Amazing!

TheirstoryisbutoneofthousandsofcomparablestorieswecelebratewithinCHI.Pickaparticipatingcongregation;thestoriesareincredible!Womenreligiousansweredthecalltocometocommunitiesthathadgreatneeds.Theymethardship,closeddoors,andlackofresourceswithgrit,witandtremendousfaith.Theycamebecausethecommunitiesneededthem.Sisterswhohadbeenteachersbecamenurses,sisterswhohadbeennursesbecameteachers.Theybecamewhattheircommunitiesneededthemtobe.

Strong-willedandfaith-filled,theseselflessservantsremainedfocusedontheministryandwhatitcouldbecome.Godhonoredtheirvisionandworkedthroughtheminamazingways.JustlookatCHItoday!

Followingintheirfootsteps,though,isdaunting.DoIhavetheirdrive,dedicationandselflessness?Sadly,no.HowmanyopportunitieshaveIdiscountedbecausetheylookedlikeobstacles?HowmanyneedshaveIignoredbecausetherewasnorealisticplantomeetthem?

Iamnotlikethesisterswhocameheresolongago,but

everytimeIrecounttheirstoryIaminspiredtotakeafewstepsbeyondwhatiscomfortable,andthatiswhatIdo.WhenIremembertheirobediencetosuchanill-definedcall,Iamalittlebraver;whenIthinkoftheirfaith,IamalittlemoretrustingthatGodwillprovideforus,too.

Howhumbling,yethowinvigorating,itistofollowintheirsteps.Rememberingtheirexamplehelpsusseebeyondourturbulenceandcrises,andhelpsustrustthatwhatGodhasdonebeforecanbedoneagain.

“…IfIhaveseenalittlefurtheritisbystandingontheshouldersofGiants.” — IsaacNewton

MARKBEKKEDAHLCHIMercyMedicalCenterWilliston,NorthDakota

Questions for ReflectionWhat inspires you most when you hear stories about the pioneering women religious in CHI’s participating congregations?

What do you want your legacy to be?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Who Sent YouWho Sent You?Who Sent You?

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Suggested Sacred TextSo she said to Elijah, “Why have you done this to me, man of God? Have you come to me to call attention to my guilt? …Now indeed I know that you are a man of God, and it is truly the word of the Lord that you speak.” — 1 Kings 17:18 and 24

Sacred StoryIknockedsoftlyonthedoorandenteredthepatient’sroom.“Hello,mynameisDavid.Iamachaplainhere.”AndthenIwaited.Thiswasherroom,hercrisis.Shehadtherighttomakethenextmove.Iwouldnottakethatpowerfromher.

Shetookafewmomentstoquiethersobbingandfocusonmypresence.Whenshereplied,itwasbothafrightened,angrychallengeandasinceredesiretoknow:“Whosentyou?”sheasked.“God,orsomeoneelse?”HerquestionwasnotverydifferentfromtheoneJohntheBaptisttoldhisdisciplestoaskJesus.

By“someoneelse,”shemeantthepeoplewhohadputherinthisroom.ShewasaskingifIwasoneofthem.Herquestionsurprisedme,butitwasafairandimportantquestion.Iknewtheanswer;Ihadactuallythoughtaboutitbeforeknockingonherdoor.“Godsentme,”Itoldher.HowelsecouldIhavegottenthere?Certainlynotwithmyownscaredhumanity.

Likeafullballoonrelaxing,herpainandfearbegantoflowout.“Noonehastherighttostopsomeonefromdoingwhattheyneedtodo!Letmealone!Letmego!Letmedie!”sheshoutedandsobbed.Then,shetoldmeabouthermother,whohaddiedsixmonthsbefore.BecauseGodhadsentme,Iaskedthenextquestion.

“Whatdidyourmotherdieof?”Iasked.

“ThesamethingI’mdyingof.Neglect!”sheshouted.

Then,shetoldmestoriesofabandonmentandabuseinherlife.Thereweremanystories,toomany

foranyonetobearalone.“Goddoesn’tcareaboutme,hewon’tforgiveme!”shesobbed.Thebreaththatformedthosewordscamefromaplaceofpaindeepinhersoul.Herphysicalandemotionalpainseemedembeddedinherspiritualandmentalillness,torturingher.

Shewastoowoundedtopraywithoutsomeonetohelpher.ThatwaswhyGodhadsentme,Irealized,tobepresenttoher.IwastheretotellheraboutashepherdGodwhotenderlycaresforherwithloveandcompassion;awarriorGodwhoisfaithfulandstrongenoughtokeephersafe.But,toembraceanykindofGod,sheneededhope.Andhopewasthere,somewhereinthegraceofpresence.

Shesaid,“Wouldyoupraywithme?”

Weprayedtogether,andGodbecamepresent.AwarriorGod,ashepherdGod,aforgivingGod.Hehadneverleft;andnow,sheknewthat.

DAVIDRAPPCHIFranciscanHealthTacoma,Washington

Questions for ReflectionHow often do you think of yourself as being “sent?” Who sends you, “them” or God?

Can you think of a time when you visited someone as a prophet?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred TextIt Takes a Team to Heal a PatientIt Takes a Team to Heal a Patient

It Takes a Team to Heal a Patient

Question for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextNow you are Christ’s body, and individually parts of it. — 1 Corinthians 12:27

Sacred StoryAsmanagerofacutecareatCHIFranciscanHealthSt.ElizabethHospital,Iamveryinvolvedwithdailypatientcareneeds.Oneday,amemberofourhousekeepingstaffsaidapatientwantedtotalktome,the“personincharge.”

Iknockedonthedoorandintroducedmyselftothepatientandhiswife.TheyaskedifImadeapointofbuildingteamworkonmyunit.Isaidyes–infact,buildingteamworkwasoneofmytopobjectives.Iwasalittlereservedwithmyresponsebecausethat’snotatypicalquestionfromapatient,andIwasn’tsurewheretheconversationwouldgo.

Ineednothaveworried.Thepatientandhiswifetoldmetherewasagreatlevelofteamworkonourunit.Heexplainedthathehadalonghistoryofworkingwithteams,andourswasgreat.Hewasimpressedthatstaffmemberswhodidn’tknowtheanswertoaquestionwentandfoundsomeonewhodid;theyworkedtogetherandhelpedoneanother.

Hiswifeexplainedthatherhusbandhadneverbeenahospitalpatientbefore,anditwasn’taneasyroleforhim:allofthenewexperiences,suchashavinganIV,madehimanxious.But,shesaid,ourstaffhaddoneawonderfuljobofcaringforhim.Theyexplainedeverythingandputthembothateaseallowingfeartobedisplacedbyhopeandhealing.

ThepatientsaidIshouldbeveryproudofourteam.IblinkedbacktearsofjoyasItoldhimhowgladIwasthathehadreceivedgoodcare,andIthankedhimforlettingmeknow.

Thatpatientandhiswifegavemeagreatblessingthatday.I’vesharedthisstorywithourteamtoletthemknowhowmuchourteamworkmeanstothosewearecommittedtoserving.

CAROLHINER,RNCHIFranciscanHealthSt.ElizabethHospitalEnumclaw,Washington

Question for ReflectionHow are you more life-giving through teamwork?

“ The patient and his wife told me there was a great level of teamwork

on our unit.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextHis mother and his brothers arrived. Standing outside, they sent word to him and called him. A crowd seated around him told him, “Your mother and your brothers and your sisters are outside asking for you.” But he said to them in reply, “Who are my mother and brothers and sisters?” And looking around at those seated in the circle he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers and my sisters. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” — Mark 3:31-35

Sacred StoryInthemidstofsadness,somethingspecialhappenedatourhospital’simmediatecarecliniconedaywhenamemberofthecommunitycameseekingfollow-upcareforastroke.Thepatientwasyoungandwasthoughttobehealthybeforethestroke,whichlefthimunabletowalk.

Theproviderseeinghimthatdaywasmysister,Connie.SheandIbothworkedattheclinic.Afterexaminingthepatient,Conniethoughtheneededtoreturnforanotherfollow-upappointment.Thepatient’swifetoldConniethatbringinghimbackwouldbedifficult,asshewasunabletogethiswheelchairdownthestepsinfrontoftheirhouse.Thepatientwouldhavetocrawloutofhishouse.

Conniebegantotearup.Shecouldseethehumiliationonthepatient’sface.Itwasembarrassingforhimtohavehisneighborsseehimcrawloutofthehouse.Justweeksbefore,hehadbeenahealthymanwhowastotallyindependentandwalkedoutofhishousetogotoworkeachday.

Arampwouldhelpthecouplemaneuverthewheelchairinandoutofthehouse,butthecouplehadbeenstrugglingfinanciallyevenbeforethestroke.Now,theredefinitelywasn’tanyextramoney

foraramp.Thepatient’swifehadcontactedseveralorganizationsinthecommunityforassistance,butwithoutanyluck.

Conniecalledlocalbusinessesandcontractorsuntilshefoundsomethatwoulddonateallofthesuppliesneededtobuildaramp.Acontractingcompanyagreedtodonatelaborandtools.Connieandherhusbandcoordinatedtheproject,andwithin10daysapermanentrampwasbuiltatthepatient’shome.

SomanypeopleallowedGodtousethemtoextendkindnesstothispatient.Connie’scompassionforthepatient,hiswifeandthedifficultrealitytheyfacedwascontagious.Itinspiredallofusattheclinic,aswellasthepeopleConniecontactedforhelp.Sheneveronceactedasifshewasdoinganythingoutoftheordinary.

ThebeautifulthingisthatthisstoryisnotasmuchaboutConnieasaboutteamworkandthegoodnessofpeoplerespondingtoaneighborinneed,asourfoundressesdid.It’sacelebrationofthehealingministryofhealthcare,whichcompelsustoextendourcompassionbeyondhospitalandclinicwallsandintothecommunitiesweserve.

DEBRADANZINGERKentuckyOneHealth,FlagetMemorialHospitalNewHavenPrimaryCareOfficeNewHaven,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionHow might God be calling you to help a neighbor in need?

What feelings and emotions stir within you when you help those who are vulnerable?

A Neighbor in NeedA Neighbor in NeedA Neighbor in Need

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Question for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextDo good to others, surely Allah loves those who do good to others. — Qur’an 2:195

Sacred StoryWhydoyouworkhere?Isitbecausewewerethefirsttoofferyouajob?Isitbecausewehavesomeseriouslycooltoolsthatarefuntoworkwith?Or,isitbecauseyouhaveacallingtohealthcare;agenuinewishtohelppeopleandmakearealdifferenceintheirlives?

Weliveinatimewhenthechangestakingplaceinhealthcarewillgodowninhistory.AsKevinLoftonsaid,we’reina“transitionfromsickcaretohealthcare.”Inthistransition,information–informationthathelpsusunderstandourconsumersandwhattheywantfromthecontinuumofhealthcare–isakey.IworkinBusinessIntelligence,andIknowthattheinformationwesupplydirectlyaffectsthequalityofservicesCHIprovides.

Thistransitionisnoteasy.We’refacingsomeofthesamestrugglesfacedbythewomenreligiouswhofoundedthisorganization:limitedresources,ambitioustimelines,andapopulationofmedicallyunderservedindividualsandcommunitiescountingonustopullthrough.AsIfacemyownstruggleseachday,Itaketimetorememberthesisterswhobeggedbydayinordertoprovidecareatnightinharshenvironments.IgivethankstoGodthatmystruggleisinthecomfortofanoffice,notoutintheelements.IgivethanksagainthatIhavetheopportunitytohelpchangetheworldwithinnovativethinkingandcreativeuseoftheresourcesavailable.

Iworkhereforthreereasons:first,theopportunitytoservemyLordinanenvironmentwhereGod’spresenceisfelteveryday;second,tobepartofanorganizationthatfulfillstheobligationtoprovideacts

ofkindnesstothoselessfortunate;third,tobeabletousemyabilitiestosupportthefirsttworeasons.Allofthishappensinanenvironmentinwhichthehospitalityweshoweachotherisasimportantastheworkwedo.

Howblessedwearetobeworkinginhealthcare.

TIMPICKERINGCatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOfficeEnglewood,Colorado

Question for ReflectionWhy do you work here?

Why Do You Work Here?Why Do You Work Here?Why Do You Work Here?

“ The hospitality we show each other is

as important as the work we do.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextPraise God, for God is goodMake music for his name – it brings joy –For God has chosen Jacob for himself,Israel as his own possession. — Psalm 135:2-4

Sacred StoryAsahospitalchaplain,IhadworkedforyearswithJoan,aregisterednursewhowasaverycomfortingpresencetoherpatientsonthemedical/surgicalunit.Ialsoknewherfromchurch,whereherbeautifulvoicewouldrippleouttothecongregation,sendingpeacetoeveryonewhoheardher.Ididn’tknowthatonedayIwouldunderstandtherootsofhertalent,andthereasonswhyitwasexpressedinsuchetherealmusic.

Oneday,Joan’sfather–knowntoeveryoneas“UncleBill”–wasbroughttothehospital.UncleBillwasdying.Hewasinbed,andwouldnevergetoutofbedagain.Hiswifehaddiedsomeyearsbefore.

Inthehospital,Bill’s10childrensurroundedhim.Eachcametomakehisorherpeaceandsaygoodbyetohim.These10childrenhadgrownupinamusicalfamily;Billhadtaughteachonetosingandplayinstruments.Theywereusedtomakingbeautifulmusictogether.

WhenBillsawhisdaughterscrying,hegavethemagentlepushinadifferentdirection.“Don’tcrywhenIdie,”hesaid.“Sing!”

Andsingtheydid,theirfathersingingwiththem.Itsoundedlikeachoirofangelshadcometogetheronthemedical/surgicalfloor.Theyweresorrowful,buttheywerejoyful,too.StaffmembersclosedthedoortoUncleBill’sroomsootherpatientswouldn’tbedisturbedbythemusic;but,manypatientsandstaffmemberssangrightalongwithBillandhisfamily.

Iknowthatwheneverchildrenlosetheirdad,it’sasorrowfultime.ItwassuchacomforttoseeBill’schildrenhelpinghimmakehisjourney.Hewasreadytogo;hewasjustwaitingforGodtobereadyforhim.Inthemeantime,hewantedhischildrentosing.

Intheend,whenBilldied,thenursesformedanhonorguardandsang“HowGreatThouArt”astheywheeledhisbodydownthehall.Manystaffmemberswantedtoshareinthisritual,andmanypatientssangrightalong.Billandhischildrenhadprovidedpatientsandstaffalikewithatrulyupliftingexperience.AslongasIlive,Iwillneverforgetthisprayerful,musicalfamilyandthegifttheygavetoBill,ourpatients,ourstaffandme.

PHYLLISBOWLINGKentuckyOneHealthFlagetMemorialHospitalBardstown,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionHow can singing and other talents help us with the grieving process?

How do we bring others into sharing a personal and sacred dying process?

Uncle BillUncle BillUncle Bill

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextWorking together, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For he says: “In an acceptable time I heard you, and on the day of salvation I helped you.” Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. — Corinthians 6:1-2

Sacred StoryRecognizingapatient’slifetimeofaccomplishmentsisoneofthemanywaysweprovidecare.Inherfinaldays,Mattie,a93-year-oldpatientinourTransitionalCareUnit(TCU),gaveusanamazingopportunitytodojustthat.

Itallbeganinthecafeterialine,whenoneofourdirectorsofferedtobuylunchforMattie’ssonanddaughter-in-law.Theytoldabeautifulstory.TheysaidthatMattiehadbeenanurseatourhospitalformorethan30years.Infact,shewasoneofthefirstnursestoworkinthesurgicalrecoveryroom.ThedirectorpromptlysharedthiswiththeTCUstaff,whowantedtorecognizeMattie’snursingachievements.IspokewithMattie’sfamilyabouttheplanandgainedtheirsupport.

Mattiewasweakandfailing,butabletocommunicatewiththenursingstaff.WeplannedforourchiefnursingofficertocomeandthankMattieforheraccomplishednursingcareer.ThenationalDAISYFoundation,whichrecognizesoutstandingnurses,sentusarecognitioncertificate,statueandpinbyovernightmail.OneofourretiredRNsagreedtobakecinnamonrolls,whicharepartofeveryDAISYawardpresentation.Tworetiredphysiciansandaretirednurse,whohadallworkedwithMattie,excitedlyagreedtocometothecelebration.EverythingwasorganizedbyFriday,withtheeventscheduledforMonday,justthreedaysaway.

OnSunday,Mattiebecameincreasinglyconfusedandlessalert.TheTCUnursesdecideditwasimportanttorecognizeMattiewithoutdelay,andtheyquicklygatheredinherroom.TheypresentedherwiththeDAISYpinandattachedittohergown.

OnMonday,Mattiewasnotabletoparticipate,butasmallcelebrationstilltookplacewithherfamily,nursesandspecialguestsinattendance.MembersofthefamilysharedstoriesaboutMattie’snursingcareer,whichincludednurses’trainingrightafterhighschool,joiningtheArmyandgoingtoEnglandduringWorldWarII,workinginaMASHunitandcaringforthefirstinjuredsoldiersofD-Day,thenworkingatGoodSamaritan.TheDAISYcertificateandstatuewerepresentedtothefamily,honoringMattieforalifeofnursing,well-lived.

MattiediedonTuesdaywiththeDAISYpinonhergown.Herobituarymentionedthat“shereceivedthehonoraryDAISYAwardforextraordinarynursesgiveninappreciationofthemeaningfuldifferenceshemadeinthelivesofthemanypatientsandfamiliesshecaredforatGoodSamaritanHospital.”

Lifegetsmightypreciouswhenthereisverylittletowaste.Mattieremindedusthatitisnevertoolatetocelebrateanextraordinarylife.

SHELLYJORGESCHIHealthGoodSamaritanKearney,Nebraska

Questions for ReflectionIn the frenetic pace of patient care, how can you take the time to pause and learn a patient’s life story? Even when we cannot cure, sharing and celebrating this story may be very healing.

How can you help families celebrate the lives of our patients?

Life Well LivedLife Well LivedLife Well Lived

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text Questions for ReflectionSuggested Sacred TextRejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. — Romans 12:15

Sacred StoryWhenItellpeopleIworkonahospitalobstetricsunit,theyoftensaysomethinglike,“Itmustbesopleasanttoworktherewithallthebabies.”However,onourunit,wealsoshedmanytears.Unlikemosthospitalunits,patientsusuallydon’tcometousbecausetheyareill.However,wemustbepreparedandhavethestrengthneededtoconsoleamotherwhoholdsherlifelessinfantinthepalmofherhand.Someofthatstrengthcomesfromwithin,andmuchofitcomesfrommysupportsystemandmyrelationshipwithGod.

Itcanbeoverwhelmingtodeliverachildthathasdiedinthewomb.Irememberthatwhenaphysicalcureisn’tpossible,it’sstillpossibletohealthesoul.Iremembertheimportanceofprayer.Irememberthatwedon’tneedtowaitonthehospitalchaplainorthefamilypastor,butcantaketheinitiativetoprayrightatthemomentneeded.

AtSt.CatherineHospital,Ihavelearnedthatfamilyisnotmadeoffleshandblood,butofthelaughsandtearssharedwitheachother.

Iwasoncedeeplyaffectedbyayoungmarriedcouplewhowasexperiencingthetraumaoftheirthirdlossofachildinthemother’swomb.Withinthefourwallsofherroom,therewassomuchagonyanddespair.IdidtheonlythingIwasabletodoatthatmoment:satontheedgeofherbed,wrappedmyarmsaroundherandcriedwithher,asIprayedforherandherfamily.

VERONICAFLORES,RNSt.CatherineHospitalGardenCity,Kansas

Questions for ReflectionWhat would you have said to or done with this grieving family?

How do you mourn with those who mourn?

Family Is Not Made From FleshFamily Is Not Made From Flesh and Blood

Family Is Not Made From Flesh and Blood

“I remember that when a physical

cure isn’t possible, it’s still possible to heal the soul. I remember the importance of

prayer.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextFor I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. — Jeremiah 29:11

Sacred StoryCHISt.VincentHealthparticipatesintheBundledPaymentforCareImprovement(BPCI)program,aCenterforMedicareandMedicaidServices-approvedprogramthatincorporatesfinancialandperformanceaccountabilityforpatientcare.Thehealthcoachesinvolvedinthisprogramhavebeeninstrumentalintouchingpeople’slivesandmakingadifferenceintheirrecoveries.Toprovidejustoneexample,healthcoachesLabrayMerkelandNatalieMartinwereabletoproactivelychangewhatcouldhavebeenadevastatingoutcomeforapatient.

Bothhealthcoachespersonallyinterviewpatientswhohavejointreplacementsurgery.DuringtheirroundingtheymetJudith,asweet,elderlypatientwholived60milesfromLittleRock.Shewashavingacomplicatedsurgery,andtheylearnedthatshehadsomebarrierstocare.TheoriginalplanwasforJudithtotransfertoaskillednursingfacilityafterdischarge,buttheplanchangedandshewasdischargedtoherhomewithaplanforfollow-upcontact.LabraywasconcernedaboutJudithandcontactedherimmediately.Judithwastearfulonthephoneandsaidshewasnotdoingwell.

Withhelpfromasocialworker,LabrayandNataliefoundsolutionsforJudith’sbarrierstocare,whichincludednofamilysupportandahusbandwhoisboundtoawheelchair.TheteamfoundthatJudithwasacandidateforhomehealthservices.Theyobtainedordersforhomehealthcareandarrangedahomecarevisitfortheverynextday.

However,whenNataliemadeascheduledfollowupcall48hoursafterJudith’sdischarge,shelearnedthat

Judithhadbecomeweakerandwasunabletotakecareofherselfatall.NatalietoldJudithtocall911andnotifiedtheon-callsurgeonatSt.Vincent.

Judithwenttoahospitalclosertoherhome,wheretheinitialwork-uprevealedthatshehaddevelopedaurinarytractinfectionandrequiredtwounitsofblood.OnceJudithwasoutofimmediatedanger,thehealthcoachesmadearrangementsforhertotransferbacktoCHISt.Vincentsohersurgeoncouldoverseehercare.

WhenLabrayandNataliesharedthisstory,IknewitwasGodinaction.Yousee,IhadbeenthefirsthealthcoachfortheBPCIprogramandhadlovedthework.WhenIwasofferedapromotiontoasupervisoryrole,Iwashesitanttoleavethebedside,andIprayedforguidanceinchoosingthepaththatGodwantedmetotravel.WhenIdecidedtoacceptthenewrole,IprayedthatGodwouldallowmetofindtherightpeopletocontinuetheprogram.

Proverbs3:5-6says,“TrustintheLordwithallthineheart;andleannotuntothineownunderstanding.”

WhentheteamtoldmethestoryofJudith,tearscametomyeyes.IrealizedthatIhadtrustedintheLordthedayIdecidedtochangemypathintheprogram.Bydoingso,Igrewinmyfaithandwatchedothersgrowintheirs.

LORIBURRISCHISt.VincentInfirmaryLittleRock,Arkansas

Questions for ReflectionHave you ever been at a crossroads with a difficult decision to make?

Was your experience similar to or different from the author’s?

A Day in the LifeA Day in the Life of a Health Coach

A Day in the Life of a Health Coach

18

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Question for Reflection

Give God the GloryGive God the GloryGive God the Glory

“ Well, life comes full circle.”

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Suggested Sacred TextSpeaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord. — Ephesians 5:19

Sacred StoryDr.“O”hadbeenDad’sdoctorforyears.HewouldseeDadathishome,andovertimetheyhadbecomefriends.Theywouldfrequentlydiscusstheirfaithandlifeingeneral.WhenDad’shealthdeclinedduetodiabetes,hemovedtobeclosertome.Unfortunately,hecouldnolongerseeDr.Oduetothegeographicdistance.

Well,lifecomesfullcircle.DadfoundhimselfatSts.Mary&ElizabethHospitaltohaveabelow-the-kneeamputation.Hewashospitalizedthedaybeforethesurgeryforpre-operationtreatment.Dr.Oisonstaffatthehospital,andIcalledtolethimknowaboutmyDad’ssurgery.HesaidhewouldtrytocomeandseeDadthenextmorning.

Thefollowingday,mybrotherandIarrivedatthehospitaltospendtimewithdadbeforethesurgery.Whenthetimecame,Dadwastransportedtotheholdingroomintheoperatingsuite.MybrotherandIsatwithDad,tryingtokeephismindoccupiedbeforetheimpendingamputation.

Aswesat,Dadsaid,“Guesswhocametoseemethismorning?”Ismiledandsaid,“Dr.O?”DadwentontotellmethatDr.Oheldhishands,prayedwithhimandsangasong.DadbegansobbingandtoldushewouldneverforgetDr.O’svisit.Hekeptrepeating,“Whodoesthat?Whodoesthat?”

Dr.O’sactofloveandfriendshipmeantsomuchtoDad.Dr.Oisabusyman,buthetooktimetoministertotheneedsofhispatient;infact,hemadeDadfeellikehewashisonlypatient.

WhenIsawDr.Oandthankedhim,hereplied,“GiveGodtheglory.”Indeed,weexperiencedGod’sglorythroughDr.Othatday.Heismorethanafriend.Heisareminderofhowourlives,ifwechoosetosharethem,canbeablessingtothoseinneed.

SHERICLARKKentuckyOneHealthSts.Mary&ElizabethHospitalLouisville,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionIn what ways are we able to glorify God in our work?

Recall as time when someone went above and beyond to bring you comfort. What about that experience is most memorable?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextAnd the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick. Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. (Jesus) said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. — Luke 5: 17b-19, 24b-25

Sacred StoryMyhusbandandIweresoexcitedtoflytoSeattle.Myseatwasinthethirdrow,nexttoadelightfulelderlyladywhowasextremelyhardofhearing.Abouttwohoursintotheflight,aflightattendantaskedthatanyonewithamedicalbackgroundtoreporttothefrontgalley.Inervouslylookedaround,hopingthatsomeonewithmoreup-to-dateskillsthanminewouldrespond.Iwasrelievedtoseeacouplegetupimmediatelyandgotothegalley.

Iknewbythefrenzyofactivitythatwhateverwashappeningwastrulyamedicalemergency.Theemergencybagwasopened,anoxygentankwasremovedfromanoverheadbin,andtheflightattendantlookedveryworried.

IleftmyseattoasktheotherflightattendantwhatIcoulddotohelp.Shetoldmeapassengerwithapeanutallergyhadgoneintoimmediaterespiratoryshutdownwhenanotherpassengeropenedabagofpeanuts.Thetwomedicalvolunteerswereadoctorandanurseanesthetist.Afterwelanded,IwouldfindoutthatweallworkforCHI.Icouldseethemdoingcompressions,usingarespiratorbagandtryingtokeepthepatient’sairwayopen.

Somethinghappenstohealthcareprofessionalsinamedicalemergency;youcan’tnothelp.It’snotwork,it’sacalling.Watchingthatnurseanddoctor,IbetterunderstoodthatIdon’tworkforanindustryoracompany,butaministry.Everyoneonthatplanewaswillingtheirfellowpassengertoheal,butthatwouldhappenonlythroughthededicationofthosetwomedicalprofessionals.

Theplanebegantodescendrapidly.ThepilotannouncedthatwewouldmakeanemergencylandinginBillings,Montana.Asthepatientwasloadedontoawaitingambulance,sheraisedahandandgavea“thumbsup”tothecouplethathadkeptheraliveformorethan45minutes.Theflightattendantswereovercomewithemotion,thecouplehugged,andtheentireplanebrokeoutinapplause.Everyonesharedacollective,sacredmomentofgratitude.

Well,almosteveryone.AsIsatbackdown,myhard-of-hearingelderlyseatmatesaidtome,“AreweinSeattle?Itwassofast.Ilovethisnon-stopflight.”

DENISEMCNITTCHIHealthMercyHospitalCouncilBluffs,Iowa

Questions for ReflectionWhat is most significant to you in the story of the Seattle flight or the suggested sacred text?

Can you think of and share a time when you participated in a healing moment?

How often do you think of the awesome responsibility we have for one another?

Do you experience your work as a vocation or a ministry?

The Non-Stop Flight to SeattleThe Non-Stop Flight to SeattleThe Non-Stop Flight to Seattle

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextPleasant words are as a honeycomb: sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. — Proverbs 16:24

Sacred Story“Wassheanangelorarealperson?”ThiswasthequestionthatDorothycalledmetoask.

Dorothy’sfatherhaddiedpeacefullyatourhospitalafewweeksearlier,hisfamilyathisside.Grievingandneedingcomfort,Dorothy’sdaughter,Nancy,hadfeltdrawntovisitourhospitalchapel.

Later,Nancytoldhermotherthatafteramomentofbeingaloneinthechapel,asidedooropenedandasmallwomannamedAlfredaappeared.Nancywasstartled,asshethoughtshehadbeenallalone.Then,AlfredaofferedwordsofkindnessandcompassionaboutthepassingofNancy’sgrandfather.ThatwasexactlywhatNancyneeded.“ItwasasthoughIwasdrawntothechapeltobethereatexactlythesametimeasAlfreda,”Nancysaid.Shewasstunnedbywhatshedescribedasa“spiritualexperience.”

Onthephone,Dorothysobbedasshetoldmethestoryofherdaughter’sexperience.Ithadtouchedtheentirefamilyandbroughtthemcomfort.DorothyfeltcompelledtocallthehospitaltofindoutifAlfredawasrealoranangel.

IexplainedtoDorothythatAlfredaisindeedarealperson;aSisterofCharityofNazarethwhoisinresidenceatthehospital.Dorothybecameevenmoreemotional:Alfredahadbeenhermother’sname.That’soneofthereasonsshethoughtthatSisterAlfredamightbeanangel,comfortingthefamilyonthedayhermomwelcomedherdadintoHeaven.

Dorothysaidthatwewillneverknowhowmuchtheexperiencemeanttoherandherfamily,andthatSisterAlfredahadbeenamessengerofGod’shealing

presencethatday.Sr.Alfredaisarealperson,butwecanallbeangelstothoseinneedwhenwelistenandofferkindnessandcompassion.

BETHENGLERKentuckyOneHealthSts.Mary&ElizabethHospitalLouisville,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionThink of someone who has been an angel to you in a time of need. What did he or she say that brought you comfort?

How can you be an angel to someone else today?

Angels Among UsAngels Among UsAngels Among us

“ ...we can all be angels to those in need when we listen and offer kindness and compassion.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

The Goodbye SongThe Goodbye SongThe Goodbye Song

22

Suggested Sacred TextJacob charged them, saying: “I am to be gathered to my people...” — Genesis 49:29

Sacred StoryIwassummonedtotheemergencydepartmenttobewithapatientandhisfamily.WesleywasanelderlyNativeAmericanmanwholivedontheUmatillaIndianReservation,whichisnexttoPendleton.Wesleyhadcancerthathadmetastasizedthroughouthisvitalorgans,andhisconditionbecameworseverysuddenly.

FamilymembersweregatheringwhenthespiritualleaderoftheNativeAmericanWashatfaithcommunityarrived.Themedicalstaffquietlymovedoutofthetraumaroomasthefamily–hisspouse,grandchildren,children,cousinsandfriends–gatheredaroundthedyingelder.Wesleywasonthethresholdbetweenthisworldandthenext,withfamilytheretohelpinhiscrossing.

AsWesleylayonthegurney,thespiritualleaderstoodnexttohimandsaid,“Weareheretosingforyou.”Hebegantoringahandbellhehadbroughtwithhiminasteadycadence,foralltosingby.HeledusaswesangsongsinthetraditionalNativeAmericanway.Thenhesaid,“Wehavesungthreesongsofhealing,oneforthebody,onefortheheart,andoneforthelife.Nowthefloorisopen.”Thismeantanyonewaswelcometogiveatributetothedyingelder,orevenaskforforgivenessfromhim.Actually,anythingcouldbespokenthatwouldhelpWesleyjourneyon.

Thispatterncontinued:asongsung,awordofsupportgiven.Attimes,Wesley’sheartwouldslowandweaken,themonitorbarelydetectingit.Atothermoments,duringasongorinresponsetothewordsofachildorfriend,hisheartwouldquicken.

Timewentby,yettimewasnomorebecauseweallstoodattheportaloftheeternal;encouraging,supporting,andactingasmidwivesforWesleyintothenextlife.

Duringthistime,thestaffcontinuedtoworkquietlyaroundthefamily.Evenifthestaffmembersdidn’tknowthereligiousbeliefsandcustomsofWesleyandhisfamily,theyrespectedandhonoredthefamily’sneedtosaygoodbye.

Afterabouttwohours,Wesley’sgentlesoulletgoofhisbodyandmovedon.Wesangonelastsong,andthentheleaderdirectedmetocoverWesley’sbodywithablanket,forhislifewasnolongerwithus.Hisfamilyfiledquietlyfromtheroom.

Leavingtheroom,ImarveledatthebeautyofWesley’sdeath;thewitnessofyoungandold,assistingtheelder’sjourney.Whatawonderfulwayforhimtotakethelastfewstepsfromthisworldintothenext,beinghonoredandsupportedashereturnedtohiscreator.WesleyandIdonotshareacommonfaith,butIwouldwanttohaveadeathlikehis,atrue“deathwithdignity,”withmyfamilybymyside.

RODHARWOODCHISt.AnthonyHospitalPendleton,Oregon

Questions for ReflectionHow do you create space in which those you care for can freely engage their creator?

What would your “death with dignity” look like, and have you shared your wishes with those you call your family?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextO Lord, you probed me and you know me; you know when I sit and when I stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know the whole of it. — Psalm 139:1-4

Sacred StoryMystoryisaboutapatientwhotaughtmealessoninkindness.I’vebeenaclinicianonaninpatientvoluntarypsychiatricunitfor10years,workingasatherapistfacilitatinggroupandindividualtherapy.Aboutfiveyearsago,therewasafemalepatientinherseventieswhowouldspendmostofthedaystandinginfrontofherroom,room#1111.Shedidn’tsocializeorsaymuchtostaff.

EachmorningwhenIarrived,shewouldbestandingandstaringdownthelonghallway.Iwouldsaytoher,“Goodmorning”withmybest7a.m.cheer.Shewouldmakenoresponse,notevenasmile,justacoldstare.But,morningaftermorning,Iwouldtellher,“Goodmorning.”

Onthelastdayofheradmission,Isaidcheerfully,“Goodmorning.”

Shesaid,“Excuseme,mayItalktoyou?”

“Yes,”Ireplied,“howcanIhelpyou?”

“IjustwantedtotellyouthatIwouldwaiteverymorningbymydoorwaytohearyousay‘goodmorning,’butIwasunabletoanswer,”shesaid.“Thankyoufornotgivinguponme.”

Tothisday,whenItellthisstory,Igetabitchokedup.

ItellmypatientsaboutPatient1111andhowshetaughtmetonevergiveuponpeople.Allbeingsareequalanddeserveequaltreatmentregardlessoftheirstateof

mindorphysicalcondition.Patient1111taughtmethatthingshappenthatarebeyondourunderstanding,butcontinuingtoloveandrespectoneanothercanbringpeaceandharmonytoourworld.

THOMASMERINGOLOSaintClare’sHospitalBoonton,NewJersey

Questions for ReflectionWho was the person who didn’t give up on you? Have you thanked them lately?

What is the lesson YOU learned from this sacred story?

Patient 1111 Patient 1111Patient 1111

“ All beings are equal and deserve equal treatment regardless of their state of mind or

physical condition.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred Text“The Church is catholic because she is the space, the home in which the faith is proclaimed to us in its entirety, in which the salvation brought to us by Christ is offered to everyone. The Church is catholic because she is universal, she is spread abroad through every part of the world and she proclaims the Gospel to every man and to every woman. The Church is not a group of elite; she does not only concern the few. The Church has no limits; she is sent to the totality of people, to the totality of the human race. And the one Church is present even in her smallest parts...”— Pope Francis, General Audience, October 9, 2013

Sacred StoryAsawomanoffaith,IappreciatethatmyworkplaceenablesmetoweavemyspiritualityandministryintotheserviceIprovide.Onepatientofmine,whohassincepassed,offeredauniqueopportunitytospreadthiskindoflove.Thepatienthadovariancancer.Shewasonliquidnutrition,hadlostquiteabitofweight,andwasoftencold.

SomewomenatthechurchIattendhadstartedweavingprayershawlsformembersofourcongregation.Witheachstitchoftheshawl,theweaverwouldsayaprayer.MypatientwasJewishandIamPresbyterian,sobeforeofferingherashawlIaskedherpermission.“Iknowourfaithsaredifferent,butourGodsarethesame,”Isaid.“WouldyoumindifIbroughtyouaprayershawl?”Iasked.I’llneverforgetherresponse.“Atthispoint,I’mnotsplittinganyhairs,”shesaid.

Thewomenatchurchmadeherabeautifulshawlinburgundyred,thepatient’sfavoritecolor.Shecouldn’twaittoshowittoherdaughter.Shelovedthatshawlandsheworequitefrequently.Ithinkitbroughthersomehappinessinherlastdays.

Theprayershawlhelpedmelookafterthepatient’sspiritualaswellasherphysicalneeds.It’sawonderfulopportunityandfeelingtohelpapatientconnectwiththeirspiritualitywhilemakingthemascomfortableaspossible.

SONYAVALERIOCHIHealthatHomeWestChester,Ohio

Questions for ReflectionWhat can you do to help relieve the suffering of another person today?

In what ways are you in need of healing?

A Prayer ShawlA Prayer ShawlA Prayer Shawl

“ It’s a wonderful opportunity

and feeling to help a patient

connect with their spirituality...”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

A Special Place in My HeartA Special Place in My HeartA Special Place in My Heart

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Suggested Sacred TextWhen I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. — Psalm 94:18-19

Sacred StoryLastfall,somethinghappenedthatwillforeverholdaspecialplaceinmyheart.Aroundlunchtime,therewasamotorvehicleaccidentontheinterstate.Itallhappenedsoquickly.Onemoment,amotherandherchildrenwereontheirwayhomefromvisitingfamilyinanotherstate;thenext,aslightmistakeledtoaterribletragedy.Theaccidenttookaterribletollonayoungboywhohadbeenfulloflife,andwouldnowbecomeaherotoothers.

Irememberhearingthereportfromtheintensivecareunitstaff,whohearditfromthetraumateam.Theoutlookwasgrim.Thefamilyaskedaboutorgandonationassoonastheyunderstoodtheseverityoftheboy’sinjuries.Themothertoldusthatherlittleboywouldwanttohelpothers.Sheaskedthatwesupporthimsohecouldbeanorgandonor.Ourteamofphysicians,nurses,respiratorytherapistsandothersworkedtogethertokeepthelittleboyaliveforawhilesohecouldgivethegreatestgiftofall.Itwashardtoholdbacktears,andnoteveryonecould.

Manyhugsweresharedbetweenfamilymembers,betweenfamilymembersandouremployees,andbetweenfellowemployeesduringthisyounghero’slasthoursonEarth.Itwassuchatragicandsadevent,yetthemutualsupportwasupliftingandgavetheteamthestrengthtodowhattheywerecalledtodo.

Thatsamenight,afterotherfamilymembershadarrived,ourdonorspecialistaskediftheywouldlikethedonorflagraisedinthelittleboy’shonor.Oursecuritystaffraisestheflaginfrontofthehospital

duringadonorcase,toshowrespecttothedonor.Onthisnight,thedonor’smotherwouldmaketheraisingoftheflagsomethingmanyofuswillneverforget.

Forthefirsttime,membersofadonor’sfamilyandourstaffraisedtheflagtogether.Familymemberstoldtheirfavoritestoriesabouttheyoungdonor.Weheldhands,watchedtheflagrise,andofferedhugstosupportoneanother.Ibelievehealingbeganinthatmoment,aswejoinedourspiritsasone.

Ittouchedmyheartsothat,tothisday,Icanstillpictureitall.Iseethemomwithherotherchildren:myheartachesforherandherloss.Istandbesideher,inaweandtheninthanksgiving,assheturnedtragedyintohopeforthosewhoseliveswouldgoonthankstothegiftsgivenbyherson.

KIMBERBONNER,MSN,RNCHIHealthGoodSamaritanKearney,Nebraska

Questions for ReflectionHow do you find or make meaning during times of tragedy?

As a caregiver, how do you enter into the lives of your patients and their family members?

Has there been a time in your life when you felt consoled in the midst of a difficult situation?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextCast all of your worries upon him because he cares for you. — 1 Peter 5:7

Sacred StoryIsatnexttomyson,whowashearingfromthehospitalchaplainthathewouldsoonbefacedwithmakingadecisionaboutwhentoterminatelifesupportforhiswife.Iwastouchedbythedepthofthewarmthandcompassionofthechaplain’sspirit.Solittlewassaid,yethispresence,hisessence,seemedtosay,“Weareherewithyou.”HewasclearlyGod’srepresentativeonEarthinthathospitalwaitingroom.

Thechaplaincouldtellthatmysondidn’tyetunderstandthathiswifewasn’tgoingtomakeit,sohesatwithusforhours,calmlyandquietlywaitingforquestionsandtheinevitableemotions.Arotationofchaplainscontinuedthroughthelongday;eachonemadethemselvesavailabletousthroughouttheirshift,carryingtheirspiritualitycomfortably.

Fortunately,mysonneverhadtomakethedecision.Intheearlymorninghoursofthenextday,hiswifecodedandjustcouldn’tberesuscitated.Theon-dutychaplainwasimmediatelyatmyson’sside.Asthemembersoftheresuscitationteamleftmydaughter-in-law’sroom,eachonewalkedpastmysonandwordlesslylaidahandonhisshoulder.Themessagewassoclear:“Weareherewithyou.”Iknewthatourheartswerebeinggentlyenfoldedbytheirs,andfeltGod’spresence.

Idon’tknowifmysonrecallsanyofthetraumaofthatnightortheoutpouringofGod’sloveandsupport;but,asamotherwatchingherchild’spain,Iwillneverforget.

Maywealwaysunderstandtheimportanceofjustbeingthereforoneanother.Nowordsarerequired,

notaskhastobedone.Beingthere,filledwithourfaithandGod’slove,isallthatmatters.

ANONYMOUSCatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOfficeEnglewood,Colorado

Questions for ReflectionWhat does “ministry of presence” mean to you?

Can you think of a situation in which you were the provider or recipient of this ministry of presence?

Just Be Just BeJust Be

“ Being there, filled with

our faith and God’s love, is all that matters.”

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Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

DJ’s StoryDJ’s StoryDJ’s Story

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Suggested Sacred TextHearken, O Lord, to my prayer and attend to the sound of my pleading. In the day of my distress I call upon you, for you will answer me. — Psalm 86:6-7

Sacred Story“Donovan”means“strongwarrior,”andthislittleboyliveduptohisname.DonovanJr.,or“DJ,”wasdiagnosedwithbraincancerwhenhewasjustafewmonthsold.Whenhehadaheadache,hewouldputahandonhisheadand“prayitaway,”sayshismother,Jasmine.DJwoulddothatsameforotherswhowereinpain.HehadapurerelationshipwithGod,becausehebelievedallthingswerepossible.

DJbegantosay,“Ayúdame,Mommy,”whichJasminefoundouthehadlearnedfromaSpanisheducationalvideo.Itmeans,“Helpme.”Thebraintumorhadgrown,andDJbegansleepingmore,eatinglessandhavingseizures.Hislegsgrewweakeruntilhecouldnolongerwalk.Itwashardforhisparentstowatchhissilenttears;itwasevenharderforthemtofeelsohelpless.

Atthehospital,JasminelearnedthatDJwouldsoondiebecauseofhistumor.Jasminebecamepregnantwithhersecondchild.DJwouldputhisheadtoherbellyandaskinhislittlemanvoice,“Dere’sababyindere?”

DJ’sparentsknewthatcontinuinghistreatmentwouldbemorefortheirsakethanforDJ’s.InAugust2013,theyinvitedthehospiceteamin.

InSeptember,Jasminewentintolaborandwasrushedtothehospital.AttheexacttimethatJasminestruggledtopushthebabyoutofthebirthcanal,DJfirstbegantostruggleforbreath.Eachstruggledinpreparationforalifetocome.

IsabelFaithwasbornjustaftermidnighton

September8;DJdiedlaterthatmorning.WhenJasminelearnedthatDJhaddied,shefeltterriblefornotbeingrighttherewithhim.But,herfathersaid,“MaybeGodknewthatyoucouldn’thavehandledanymore.”DJ’sfatherhadbeentheretoholdtheirsonwhenhedied.Assoonasshecould,JasminewenttoHospiceHouse.DJlookedsereneindeath.Hehadan“I’mabigbrother”stickeronhisshirt.

JasminestilltalksaboutDJ,herlittlegentleman,whomadesurenottoleavehismommyempty-handed.HewaitedforIsabel(whichmeans“giftfromGod”)tocomebeforehereturnedtoGod.IsabelisaconstantremindertoJasminethatGodhasneverleftorforsakenher.“DJwasanangelonamissionandthoughthedayhediedisIzzy’sbirthday,itisalsohisbirthday,inadifferentway,”Jasminesays.

Weweregracedtobe“spiritualmidwives”forDJ,offeringcomforttohimandhisfamilyduringhispathbacktoGod.

LYDIABOCKUSCHIHealthAlegentCreightonHealthatHomeHospiceOmaha,Nebraska

Questions for ReflectionIn this moving story of dying and birthing, how is the prayer answered?

In what ways might birth and death be two sides of the same coin?

Sacred Story

Suggested Sacred Text

Questions for Reflection

Suggested Sacred TextI know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for our welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope. — Jeremiah 29:11

Sacred StorySometimes,ourgooddeedspassquicklyfromourmemoriesandweneverknowthelong-lastingbenefitstheydelivertoothers.Sometimes,thegiftofmedicalexpertisehealsboththebodyandthesoul,bothforpatientsandproviders.

Severalyearsago,ourtreatmentteamofferedfreejointreplacementtoawomanwhowasindesperateneedandhadnoinsurance.Dianewasamiddle-agedwomanwhohadforyearsexperiencedpainfromherhipandknee;yet,shehadawonderfuldisposition,whichmadeservingherevenmorespecial.Shewassogratefulforthesurgery.Shewroteusathankyounotethatsaid,“Mylifewaschangedbythemiracleofremovingthecauseofyearsofagony.”Everyoneofusfeltblessedtobeapartofherhealing.

Still,itwasn’tuntilsevenyearslaterthatwecametounderstandthefulldepthofhergratitude.Outoftheblue,ahandwrittenletterfromDianearrivedforherdoctorandthecareteam.Dianewasn’tsurewewouldrememberher,butwantedustoknowhowgratefulsheremained.“SometimesIforgetIevenhadsurgery,butInevertakeitforgranted!”shewrote.Herjoyflowedfromtheletter,evenassheexplainedthereasonforsendingit:Dianewasenteringhospiceforcancercare.

Weimaginedherdealingwiththedifficultchoicetoenterhospice;still,shehadusedsomeofhertimeandenergytowritetous!Whileheryearsofenjoyingapain-freelifewerefewerthananyonehadanticipated,wewouldnotforonesecondhaveconsideredchoosingadifferentrecipientforthe

jointreplacement.Diane’sgratitude,evenassheapproachedtheendoflife,gaveeachofusagiftoffargreatervaluethanthenewjointswegaveher.

“Godblessyouforyearsofrelief,”Dianesaidinherletter.“Thankyouagainandseeyouontheotherside!”Wenevertrulyknowhowwhatwedomaytouchanother’slife,orourown.Mayweallliveandpassfromthislifewithsuchunceasinggratitude.

MARCIAWEIS,RN,MSNCHIHealthMercyCouncilBluffsCouncilBluffs,Iowa

Questions for ReflectionCan you think of a time when God’s plan was obvious in your life?

What were some of the lessons you learned from that experience?

Unceasing GratitudeUnceasing GratitudeUnceasing Gratitude

“ We never truly know how what we do may touch another’s life, or

our own.”

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Catholic Health Initiatives promotes a workplace spirituality in which we can come closer to being aware of our God working with us and through us, even in

our most ordinary activities.

The patient said I should be very proud of our team.

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