Hospice

Hospice is often misunderstood. We humans do not like to think about our own deaths, or those of people we love. People who work in this medical specialty are characterized by some as angels performing super-human ministrations, and by others as macabre creatures who wish to hasten their patients' deaths. But the reality of hospice work is complex, poignant, challenging, fulfilling, and at times, even humorous. As told by one who worked for three decades in this field, this collection of essays shines a light on the struggles, gratifications, and life lessons of a 30-year career as a hospice social worker.