The music of Nat King Cole wafts gently through the room of my sweet friend and former resident. I touch her arm as I remember how it was the saddest day when it became clear we couldn’t provide the specific care she needed at our facility. Although it’s been a few years since she took up residence at the best skilled nursing facility in town, I continued to keep in touch. With each visit, her recognition of me declined, but I still loved her…I knew who she was inside. I knew that somewhere inside that body was a fun, loving, mischievous lady who loved life, her children, and stylish clothing. I smile as I remember her beautiful silver freshly coiffed hair, her hearty laughter, her rosy cheeks, her friends who called daily even when she couldn’t remember how to answer her cell phone, how she was an avid on-line shopper, how she hung in there when her body began to decline and movement became difficult. Now, she’s lying calm and serene beside me.  Her breathing is steady and comfortable. She’s doesn’t respond when I tell her I love her, but I know she hears. Her eyes stay closed as I thank her for bringing joy to my life, but I know she understands. She can’t agree with me when I tell her that she’s got a wonderful journey ahead, but I know she feels the same. The end of life can be so hard, but it can also be the most beautiful time of all. Tears spill as I say my final goodbye to her in this life and I know if she could, she would wrap her arms around me and tell me it’s ok. And it is ok. I’ll love you forever, my dear, sweet friend.

-Shauna Horne, Owner of Oasis Senior Living