Tami Coshatt, RN sounds almost apologetic as she explains that she is the office go-to nurse when a pediatric hospice patient is admitted. “I spoil them,” she explains. The patient we visit that morning has two Boston terriers which are his pride and joy. Tami keeps treats in her car for all of her patients with dogs, but you can tell these two would love her without them. 

She has been caring for this young man for a year, checking his vitals, talking with his mom about how he’s doing, asking about a recent fall. “You become attached,” she shares. “Some of the other nurses just can’t handle the kids. But it feels like a calling for me.” Tami does spoil them for the record. She brings them gifts from trips she goes on, sneaks them candy bars, and even treats them to arcade tokens at the bowling alley she and her family own. 

When we walk in this patient’s home, the dogs are thrilled to see her and the mother seems happy too. Her son is snuggled in a Lazy Boy under some blankets, watching wrestling. Tami goes through her checks while talking with the mom and petting their sweet dogs. She’ll be back next week like clockwork. In the meantime, she is always available by phone. 

Driving back to the office, Tami shares stories of all the kids she has cared for over the years. She describes how the parents all work hard to retain a sense of normalcy. “Kids who are dying will teach you a lot about living. They make the most of their short lives.” 

In some ways, it feels like all of us in hospice are here not only to provide comfort and support to the patients and their families. We’re also marveling at the fullness of life that is experienced up until the end. It feels like a privilege to be part of that.