A Peaceful Passing

I once cared for a female patient who had suffered from lung disease for several years. Her health had declined rapidly, leading to her hospitalization and a need for high levels of oxygen to sustain her life. Despite her deteriorating physical condition, she remained mentally sharp and had the capacity to make her own medical decisions.

She decided that she did not want any heroic measures, such as chest compressions or intubation, to prolong her life. Thus, she changed her code status to DNR/DNI (Do Not Resuscitate/Do Not Intubate).

Over the next few days, her health continued to worsen, and it became clear that further medical intervention would not improve her condition. She asked to speak with her adult children and made the decision to pursue a natural, peaceful passing. However, two of her children were uncomfortable with her choice and urged her to keep fighting. She reassured them that she wasn't giving up; she was choosing to focus her energy on being comfortable and ensuring quality of life in her final moments.

In her last few hours, she encouraged her family to be strong and view her passing as a temporary "goodbye," with the hope of reuniting in the future. She was placed on comfort care, and several hours later, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones.

Although her family was tearful, they didn't seem completely sad. Instead, I saw gratitude—for the years they had with their mother and for the fact that she died with dignity, without unnecessary suffering. This experience taught me that while dying is always difficult, there are ways to make it more meaningful and memorable.

I was grateful to be there to support the family through this process, and I learned so much from their example.