Tears are welling up as I even think about the wonderful Ms. Candace Johnson. She was on duty the day my mom passed away. When the medicine was not helping my mom despite increased dosages, frequency, and added meds, Ms. Johnson remained so patient with my calls for her help. She was a calm and reassuring presence when it became clear that my mom was declining and would be passing away. She quietly supported us through the scariest and uncharted experience of death.

Ms. Johnson was so calm, competent, and professional when she had the duty of confirming my mom had indeed taken her last breath. She let us know we could sit with my mom’s body as long as we needed. In addition to these unforgettable acts of service and more, what really chokes me up when I remember Ms. Johnson is that she even hugged me once my mom had passed.
She was compassion personified. She particularly put her arm around me, acknowledging in that quiet way that she knew I had just lost my beloved mom forever. Candace Johnson’s understanding comfort at that utterly raw, shocking time was a gesture I will quite simply never forget as long as I live. The memory of that traumatic hospitalization and the day of passing will forever be softened by her kindness and comfort. Candace Johnson was the last person I saw on the Fourth Floor, just after leaving my mom’s hospital room after her death. Again, Ms. Candace Johnson was there to give me a hug goodbye. Her help gave me the strength I needed to carry on. I am so grateful to her forever.