Patient & Family Hospice Testimonials

A nurse named Joan W. came for a visit. I needed medication for my brother, who is dealing with Parkinson's disease, congestive heart failure, asthma, and diabetes.

Nurse W. was on the phone for three hours to make sure I got his prescription filled. She was jumping through hoops on the phone to get help, all the while checking to make sure he was given a shower, was fed, and received the medication the emergency room had prescribed. She was tenacious and determined to work through the VITAS network to have my needs as well as my brother's needs taken care of.

In a world where so many people perform their duties with a lackadaisical attitude, she is among the best. She is professional, kind, knowledgeable, patient, and truly a prime example of what a nurse is. I wish she could come every day, but she is an on-call nurse.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Ms. Joan W., for saving the day when I was under an unusual amount of stress. I don't know if there are angels. But if there are, you certainly belong in that category.

Lori A.
Broward County, FL

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My mother was terminally ill, and the VITAS nurse (Kim F.) and case manager (Giffy A.) were so kind and helpful. They kept us well informed. Every day, if we were not at Eden Hill, we got a phone call and a status update.

You could not ask for two better people to keep you informed about a loved one. Kim worked tirelessly to find the correct recipe of drugs to keep my mother pain-free and comfortable.

John B.
Delaware

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I would like to express my immense gratitude to VITAS Healthcare, Maria S., and Team 152. Words cannot express how much I am thankful to have my beloved 93-year-old mother be a patient of yours and the exceptional Team 152.

Since the first day my mom was admitted to VITAS, I could tell and feel the love and care that VITAS personnel were providing to my mom. From one simple leg cramp to the very last minute my mom departed to a better life, VITAS was always there.

VITAS provided so much care for my mom that anytime my mom would see her head -nurse Maria S., her physician, or any other Team 152 member, she was delighted and happy to see them. She would smile at them and receive them with so much joy and happiness that, just from seeing her healthcare team, she would forget all her pain for a minute. More importantly, she would feel confident and secure that they would provide the best health care service ever.

When 24/7 continuous care was ordered by her head nurse and physician because of my mom's declining terminally ill condition, my mom received so much attention and care. I would not have known what to do had her head nurse, physician, and the lovely night/day nurses would not have been present.

At the time of mom's passing, plus the days, hours, and minutes before, Maria S. and Team 152 were always present. They never left me alone in such a sad time and terrible situation of losing a loved one. VITAS nurses and team will be there every step of the way for you when the time comes for your beloved one to depart.

Our last nurse did not leave until the funeral home came to take my mom to a better place. This VITAS nurse stayed after for a while, giving us her unconditional and emotional support. Moreover, the VITAS last shift left making sure we were okay to be alone without the presence of our mother.

I sincerely would recommend VITAS Healthcare to take care of your beloved ones because they will do anything and everything that our beloved ones deserve or need. I will always be grateful for that!

Maria S.
Broward County, FL

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Jennifer was so kind and knowledgeable. I could feel that she truly cared about our loved one and was willing to help however she could. What a wonderful person!

Irina K.
Philadelphia, PA

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I am so very thankful for the VITAS Healthcare professionals. My mom suffered from dementia, and her condition became worse from the age of 92. VITAS was called in a hospice care capacity, and they continued to monitor her care until she passed at 94.

During the last weeks of care, the nurse, social worker, and chaplain were as close to me as they were to my mom. They were available to answer any questions I had. I felt like she got the best care necessary up until her death, and I feel so very grateful that VITAS was in place to provide hospice care for my mom.

Deborah C.
Broward County, FL

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It was the best decision for my mom and for the family. VITAS was excellent, caring, and patient with us. Provided amazing care for our loved one. We couldn't have done it without VITAS.

Maria I.
Miami, Dade and Monroe Counties, FL

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My mother was placed on hospice care after suffering a stroke at the age of 101. We chose to keep her at home. VITAS assigns a team to the patient's care. My mom's group was Team 1162. We could not have asked for better people, care, and attention to her case. The nurse in charge of her case, Haydée R., was always available and attentive to my mother's needs. I also want to acknowledge the chaplain. I can't remember her name, but she came regularly to pray with and comfort both my mother and my father. Also, the attending nurse that I interacted with the most, Graciela, was a kind, compassionate, and caring person.

Ana L.
Miami, Dade and Monroe Counties, FL

My grandmother passed over 10 years ago, and I still treasure the Memory Bears they made me out of her clothes. Lauren, the music therapist, helped make a CD of me and my Grammy singing. I can hear her voice still! I appreciate it more than you could ever know!! Thank you, VITAS!!

Jennifer B.
Delaware

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At a very difficult time, VITAS came to our aid. I was very grateful for the help and support that was given to my partner who was dying, and to me, the caregiver. Unless one has been through this before, I don't think anyone is fully prepared to be a caregiver. The guidance, instruction, and training were extremely valuable. The entire staff is to be commended for their outstanding care.

Craig P.
Sacramento, CA

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My deepest thank you to Patricia, Mary Ann, Tiffany, and the entire team at VITAS. Their understanding and compassion helped me make the difficult decisions at my mother's end-of-life journey. Patricia was patient and discussed all the details and options with Mom and me at a very upsetting and stressful time of our lives. I will always have a special place in my heart for everyone at VITAS.

John Z.
Lake and Sumter Counties, FL

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On behalf of my family, I wish to extend our gratitude for the quality care and compassionate service provided by both Ms. Magaly A. (social worker) and Ms. Theresa J. (nurse) during this most difficult time. Our family wishes to express our gratitude for the exceptional care they provided to our lovely mother, Marta R.N.

Aracely and Raquel, who accompanied her during her last few days, were also exceptional. Our hearts are shredded, but we are blessed to have had a wonderful team lovingly guiding us until the very end. We shan't forget their kindness.

Marta N.
Miami, Dade and Monroe Counties, FL

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Kenia M. was the nurse care manager during my sister's terminal illness, and I can't say enough good things about her. Kenia was a true professional throughout the months that my sister required hospice care. She made sure that my sister had all the medical care needed during each phase of my sister's illness.

I always could count on Kenia, and that was very comforting, especially when I had to be out of the state to take care of my own medical concerns. Kenia was kind, patient, and compassionate and-just as important-very knowledgeable in her field. She kept me up to date on my sister's condition up until the end, and I truly appreciate her thoughtfulness during that time. I felt her support even from a long distance while I was away.

Kenia's continual care and concern made my sister's passing a lot easier for us. Thank you, Kenia, from the bottom of our hearts. The same for Doctor N. and the other members of Team 142.

Viviana N.
Broward County, FL

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My wife, Sandy, was in and out of the hospital and nursing homes. Finally, on May 4, two doctors and two social workers told me that she would not make it to May 6. Social workers advised to put her on hospice care, but I was afraid. I'm a machinist, and I wasn't sure how to take care of her. I was afraid I would hurt her in some way.

My wife wanted to come home, so I agreed to go on VITAS hospice care. We really couldn't do it without the experts from VITAS. We had nothing to worry about after we met the VITAS people. They answered all our questions and concerns. They trained us on the machines and what to do to help my wife at this difficult time.

VITAS was there with us almost every day. Hospice medical experts were with us every step of the way. Even a social worker spent time at our side to help control our feelings and emotional state.

My wife actually lived seven more weeks than expected because of the help VITAS gave us. At home, friends and relatives were able to come visit with her and say goodbyes, which really helped my wife with her attitude through the entire process.

We would like to say thank you to all at VITAS for their assistance. Now, after the event is over, we still receive help from the social worker, which we greatly appreciate. VITAS cares and is an awesome company! We received quality care from our team including the office, nurses, aids, counselors, and other workers. JOB WELL DONE!

Thomas D.
Chicagoland, IL

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From picking up our father at the hospital and transporting him to VITAS care, it was a 100% positive experience. We couldn't be more thankful for the love, care, and support we all received while our father spent his final days on this Earth. The nurses and staff were a class act, and I would highly recommend using VITAS (Nazareth Hospital) for your loved ones. Clean facility, spacious rooms, and amazing staff.

Karen E.
Philadelphia, PA

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The staff at VITAS Healthcare have provided the support and compassion that every caregiver needs when living with a loved one who has a terminal illness. On an ongoing basis, the nurse and home health aide of Team 1175 are kind-hearted individuals who continue to demonstrate human warmth and compassion toward my mother at every visit. As her daughter and caregiver, I couldn't be more thankful to have their support.

Christina A.
Miami, Dade and Monroe Counties, FL

Izzy, my PCA; Rachel, my RN (case manager); and Rose, my LPN, have been awesome! All are compassionate, kind, helpful, and professional. I couldn't have asked for a better team!

Joseph B.
Connecticut

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Thank you for this great program. My father was in hospice and just passed away on July 6. He received wonderful care from Miss Natalie and team. Elizabeth, the social worker, was also very supportive and attentive. This program is wonderful during the time when needed the most. I don't have enough words to express my gratitude.

Claudia M.
Broward County, FL

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Our family is extremely grateful to VITAS for the continuous care provided in one of the hardest and saddest moments our family has been through.

We would like to extend our deeply felt appreciation to Team 1175, especially to Dania (nurse), Dr. F., and Alina (CNA), who made sure my mother was comfortable and pain-free during her last days. Our heart aches with so much pain, but at the same time, we find comfort in knowing that we, as a family, with the help of VITAS and their great team, did the impossible to give my mom the best, most painless care we could've possibly have given, due to her deteriorated health.

Thank you, thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. Thank you, Dania, thank you, Alina, and thank you to the rest of the team (chaplain, social worker) for your love and concern for our mother.

Olga D.R.
Miami, Dade, and Monroe Counties, FL

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We switched to VITAS from another, much smaller hospice that we were not happy with for my sister. What a DIFFERENCE!

First off, the professionalism with VITAS was night and day. The staff, from phone calls to the office, the nurses, bath nurses-everyone was SO attentive and caring. My sister's bath nurse, Marisela S., is just amazing. She is a positive, happy breath of fresh air. My sister is always so happy to see her. She is always in a wonderful mood. She gives my sister the best care. She not only showers her, she washes her sheets, vacuums, and makes her bed up. Marisela is fantastic, and we are happy with the nurses as well.

Sheila K.
Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, CA

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I am so grateful for the amazing, compassionate, and competent care of every team member. My nurse, Shauanna P., made a difficult situation very pleasant and understandable. She was always honest. I appreciate personal professionalism. It makes a difference.

Stephen H.
Dallas and Fort Worth, TX

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Hello, my name is Rosie. My dad passed away 8-2-2020. It has taken me four years to be able to do this.

VITAS was not only a healthcare provider. They became our family. They worked with Dad so well. Scott and Cecilia were both amazing. The only two my dad would work with. At the time, everyone pretty much knew who my dad, Rudy R., was.

My dad was an amazing man but could be difficult at times. VITAS staff always knew the right thing to say and do. I will always be thankful and grateful for all VITAS did for me and my dad, Rudy R. Many blessings to you all!!

Rosie R.
Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, CA

I want to thank everyone at VITAS for their support and attention to my mother, Shirley S., and our family during our time of need.

My mother had dementia, and the disease started progressing quickly. VITAS stepped in and started providing services immediately. At that time, Shirley could no longer walk or dress herself but recognized her family and could talk and eat pureed food.

As time went on, she stopped speaking but was able to whisper that she loved us, hold our hands, and smile. Shortly after, she stopped eating pureed food and became bedridden. VITAS stepped up even more with compassion and support to make the last four weeks of her life as comfortable as possible, enabling a peaceful transition.

I cannot imagine getting through this without the help of Nurse Marie. She went above and beyond to help all get through this horrible rollercoaster ride by understanding everyone's needs, explaining the process and transition, and ensuring that my mom was comfortable and being taken care of.

Andie was also very helpful and always available to help resolve our many questions.

Paulette was the last caretaker with my mom. She ensured we were aware of the process and helped us get the arrangements and calls after my mom passed, including having a VITAS chaplain visit us the night of her passing. One of my biggest fears was not being with my mom when she passed. Paulette called me and let me know when the time was near. I was able to be with my mom, holding her hand when she passed, and I'm grateful for that.

I thank the doctor, many nurses, aides, chaplains, and the entire VITAS organization for their help and care at this very difficult time.

Deborah S.W.
Broward County, FL

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My father was Edward. He had dementia and was a patient of VITAS hospice. I can't imagine not having hospice on board through my father's illness.

Even when my father was transitioning, the nurses showed me what death with dignity looked like. VITAS treated my father with the utmost respect and kindness. The support I received was so very important to my wellbeing during this time. I was informed continually through his journey.

Chaplain Paul has been there for me since the beginning. Rabbi Jane provided support to my father and would say Jewish prayers with him. Other team members did an outstanding job.

Pamela R.
East Bay, CA

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Thank you to the VITAS Healthcare nurses who provided excellent care to my sister, Theresa H., during the final days of her life. Not only did you lovingly attend to Theresa's needs but showed concern for our grieving family.

Your supportive presence gave our family comfort during this difficult time. Thank you.

Barbara M.
San Antonio, TX

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I am crying tears of relief because I feel like someone finally understands what my mother needs.

Janis R.
Philadelphia, PA

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Thank you to all the angels who work at VITAS. I would especially like to recognize Dr. P. She is the most caring physician I have experienced in a LONG time.

My brother, Dennis T., was in ICU for several days and experienced a decline. It was emotional and draining experience as you are aware. Every step of the way, Dr. P. carefully explained the medical scenarios to me and talked over options in detail with me. She spent 30 to 40 minutes on the phone with me answering all my questions. I felt comfortable in making decision due to her compassion and wonderful caregiver style that assisted me in the process.

If there is an angel on earth, it is Dr. P.

Cheryl T.
Broward County, FL

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Losing a loved one can be the most terrifying experience. It was Mom, and at this last, saddest, darkest time, our family lives on another continent.

Lombard team embraced us and provided the most thoughtful and compassionate support. Mom passed away surrounded by VITAS family. She received every available support.

The Lombard team was simply the best. I owe my biggest thank you to Terri, Rachel, Bozena, Barbara, and Sonny. They are the most empathetic professionals who work with precision and embrace their patients and families with peaceful, compassionate leadership during the last journey.

Mom was comforted and cared for as if our family had moved from Europe to join her. The VITAS team surrounded both Mom and myself and held us up through the darkest moments. No question was unanswered, no smallest request was ignored. Every need was anticipated and met.

I can't imagine getting through this hardship without their help. What a blessing to have a company such as VITAS in our community. Endless thank you! Call them! You owe it you your loved one and to yourself.

Anita K.
Chicagoland, IL

My Marie. She is my person. She has my back. She does everything to ease my pain. I LOVE HER.

Leah I.
Broward County, FL

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VITAS took care of my husband during the last few months of his life. It was during COVID, and I was very isolated because of his health. The whole team was amazing. The nurses, chaplain and my support person were kind, caring, and responsive. Anything my husband needed was provided immediately. He was very cared for.

And after he passed, I received grief support, which was amazing.

If you are in need of hospice care, I wouldn't call anyone else.

Teri E.
Northern and Central Illinois, IL

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My mom was a hospice patient of VITAS. The care and treatment plan in our hospice journey was outstanding. The care team was very professional and knowledgeable and shared with us her treatment plan and care. Equipment ordered was delivered within 24 hours, and medications ordered were delivered within 24 hours. I could not have provided my mom's care and hospice journey at her home without them.

My mom's journey was peaceful and in her own home surrounded by her family. Thank you for your excellent and exceptional care during this time of not just her but of her family as well. Follow-up post passing has been wonderful as well, with resources given to help with grief. Again, with much gratitude, thank you.

Lori P.
St. Louis, MO

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I really appreciate the VITAS staff. They are compassionate, caring, and loving and treat my mom like family.

Boswell E.
Broward County, FL

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We can't thank VITAS enough for caring for our loved one. From day one, they treated us like we were part of their family! The VITAS family are warm, caring, compassionate and loving. They took the time to get to know the patient and us as the family.

Whatever we needed, they provided to us very quickly. We never had to wait for prescriptions to arrive. They did everything they said they would do each and every time.

We would like to give special thanks to our nurse, Belinda! What a caring woman! She truly cares about her patients and checks in on them often. What an angel from God!

We also want to acknowledge Rolinda, the nurse's aide. When she came, she always had a smile on her face! She talked to the patients, made them laugh and was extremely professional with the patient. We loved both of these women, and they will continue to be a part of our family forever.Thank you so much, VITAS, for making a sad situation one in which we felt very comfortable and at ease when our loved one passed!

Highly recommend VITAS!

Karla B.
Dallas and Fort Worth, TX

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The caregivers, Barbara and Bozena M., were absolutely wonderful when caring for my brother. They were kind, gentle, knowledgeable, and comforted not only my brother but also the family.

Bo was amazing all the time, but especially at the end of life. Very professional and compassionate. They helped make the hospice experience beautiful and gave dignity to the end-of-life experience.

Louise O.
Chicagoland, IL

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My spouse, Victor G., was in a lot of distress this past weekend. Kevin, his regular nurse, came Saturday morning and assessed him. Immediately, he took control and arranged for continuous care for Victor! An amazing team! I was really worried about him, but they took over! Thank you, VITAS, for putting me at ease.

Catherine G.
Seminole, Orange, and Osceola Counties, FL

This was a hard decision to make. Once me and my siblings met Christian, my mom's nurse, we knew we had made the perfect choice. She went above and beyond her call of duty. She treated my mom with the upmost respect. Her care, and compassion was top tier. She treated my mother as if it was her very own. It showed in the way she handled her and cared for her needs.

I will forever be grateful and thankful for the team that was put together to tend to my mother in her final days. VITAS, you all sent some angels that truly helped my mother in divine ways. And when she finally made her transition it was glorious. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord!

Leslie H.
Atlanta, GA

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The care of Team 156 was above and beyond. From the office staff to Dr. K. to the many nurses and aides, I have nothing but the highest praise and deepest thanks. They made an impossible situation bearable. Thank you all again, from my soul to yours!

Ronald J.
Broward County, FL

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To our wonderful Team 145, our family is forever grateful for your loving care, kindness, and concern for our mother, Marion, and our family.

You were all (Dr. S., nurses, LPNs, aides, social workers and chaplain) by my family's side when my mother died. You were truly blessings from above.

I especially would like to thank Mom's nurse, Peta, for always personally reaching out to me, giving current updates and checking to see if there was anything she can do for my family. Mom had been on a roller coaster with her health status for a while, which had been extremely stressful for us. Peta always made sure that we were also doing well and explained the dying process. She is truly the epitome of what hospice represents.

Thank you for being there for our mother. You truly made her time more peaceful and more comfortable in her last days.

Andrea M.
Broward County, FL

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Dr. Andy, nurse Yolanda and entire staff were extremely caring during the most difficult time of my life. Keep up the good work. You're the best!

Joseph S.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL

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Jennifer L. was so caring and gracious during this difficult time. She made things happen quickly and efficiently. Ten stars for Jennifer!

Susan B.
Philadelphia, PA

My father had terminal lung cancer, and VITAS helped me care for him for more than the last year of his life. Sarah R. was his nurse. She was there when he needed her. She was kind to him and very informative when we had questions.

The VITAS chaplain, Roberta W., cared for Dad. She would visit him regularly and they had good talks. Dad would tell me about their visits. Roberta was not just Dad's chaplain; she was mine. We started talking just after he was placed in hospice care. She gave a name to the heavy feeling in my heart. Actually, she introduced me to my new companion in this journey: Anticipatory grief. And then just grief. I could call her any time and she would call me regularly. I recently texted her to thank her and to give her an update. She responded immediately.

Bernice was a special, sweet soul who would come by, file his nails, and rub lotion in his hands. She established an immediate connection with him.

I am so thankful for VITAS. The relationships their staff formed with my dad and me were precious to us both. They helped me breathe. They embraced him during the last part of his earthly journey.

Robyn P.
Virginia at Washington, D.C.

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VITAS Team 154-social worker Bree, plus nurses Elvia, Elaine, Olive, Greta, Cutie, and Paulette-has been caring for my mom as we prepare for her transition. I have to say they are the BEST and as a team have made this time easy for my family.

They have provided the best care for my mom compared to the regular staff at the nursing home. I feel comfortable leaving my mom knowing they are there and will call us with on-time updates. They answer all questions. The comfort and compassion given to my mom and my family have been invaluable and well worth a five-star review.

Rae M.
Broward County, FL

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VITAS was a blessing from heaven for my mom. They took care of her with lots of love and care. The workers are very kind and helpful. They are available 24/7. I highly recommend VITAS Healthcare for anyone who needs help and care for their loved ones.

Maria Emily R.
Broward County, FL

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The staff from VITAS has been exceptional. The nurses we've had at our home taking care of my father have been super attentive and caring. Dr. N. has done a better job treating him than all the doctors he has had in the past two years combined.

I didn't know what to expect when first calling upon hospice care, but it didn't take long for the staff to help us understand and feel comfortable about the care my father would be receiving.

I am grateful for everything VITAS has provided. The VITAS team has far exceeded my expectations. My family and I are so grateful to them and only wish there was a way we could pay them back. Thanks, VITAS.

Carl B.
Broward County, FL

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I want to thank VITAS Healthcare in Greenville for the care that is shown to my friend, Flud. Jessica the aide and Cori the nurse have shown me numerous ways of how I can better help take care of her. I am thankful and would recommend this company to anyone who needs the help. Thank you for the patience and care you have shown during our time of need.

Cynthia H.
Dallas and Fort Worth, TX

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VITAS has been such an incredible help for both my mother and I. Before I made the decision to call VITAS, I was very overwhelmed and exhausted with my situation at home. Once I made the decision to move forward with VITAS, it was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders.

I feel such a sense of relief both physically and mentally since I decided to use their services. Any time I have a situation that needs immediate attention, I am confident in their ability to quickly attend to my mother's needs.

The medical team are an amazing group of supportive, understanding, compassionate, and dedicated people. I honestly don't know what I would do without them in my life. I am so grateful to them. I highly recommend their services to anyone!

Cheryl G.
Orange County, FL

The staff was efficient and quick from the day my grandma qualified for palliative care. As her grandchild and caregiver, I had no idea what to expect from palliative care to hospice. However, Gemma helped me and encouraged me to do more than I thought was possible.

Gemma treated my grandma like a queen and gave her all the attention she needed, which made her smile.

Additionally, the chaplain's support during my grieving process was a huge help.

Stephanie M.
Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, CA

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Thanks to everyone who helped my late husband at the end of his journey. You have demonstrated incredible professionalism and sympathy. Thank you to Dan, Mathew, Jennifer, and all the 24-hour nurses who took good care of him in the last three days of his life. I truly appreciate everything you did for him and my family.

Ariel C.
East Bay, CA

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My family and I cannot thank VITAS enough for what they did for our family.

My mom has always lived in her own home until she broke her hip at 90 years young. She was in a rehabilitation facility for a short period of time, and her health was declining quickly. We wanted to get my mom home so she could spend her last few days at home.

The VITAS team worked with us to quickly get my mom home so we could take care of her there and spend quality time with her. All of the nurses that assisted my mom were kind and compassionate. They also assisted my brother and I in knowing how to make my mom comfortable at home. The chaplain, Roland, was engaging and really listened and cared to hear about my mom's life.

My mom passed away within a week of coming home. She was in her own bed and surrounded by people she loved.

Chaplain Mike came to the house the day my mom passed, did a blessing, and sat with our family. The social worker who came to the house after my mom passed was so empathetic and helpful to us. She contacted the funeral home and ensured all the arrangements were made.

We cannot thank VITAS and their caring team enough for what they did for our family. Thank you, thank you!

Susan L.
Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties, FL

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The care my uncle is receiving under the gaze of your employee, Marlen G., is nothing short of exceptional. Our family is out of state, and her regular updates and sensitive heart allow us to confront this difficult moment with comfort. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and sheer kindness are commendable, and she deserves every accolade you can give her for going above and beyond.

Erika F.
Broward County, FL

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All I can say is a huge thank-you to all who cared for my dear friend Pat. She was so well cared for and loved by everyone who came from VITAS.

We were so supported as well. We have only praise for the nurses and all who attended us in such a hard emotional time.

Pat is completely healed in Heaven and we are at peace. Thank you, VITAS!!!!!!

Jane B.
Pensacola, FL

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Many thanks to VITAS for their support and care of my father during his 13-week stay in my home. With the excellent care of the medical team and support staff, we were able to keep my father in our home until he passed away. This was an important goal for our family that VITAS helped make possible.

The VITAS team was extremely competent, very compassionate, and genuinely caring throughout the entire process. In particular, during my father's last days, their support went above and beyond what I expected. Their kindness and caring toward my father and our family during that difficult time was wonderful and truly appreciated. Thank you!

Rick B.
Chicagoland, IL

We'll be forever grateful for the loving, humane, and expert care my 98-year-old mother received from VITAS Team 142 at home during her last days. Everything rolled smoothly from the moment we enrolled her at the hospital, just before she was discharged from a short stay, until she passed.

We felt supported and guided through the process. No questions went unanswered and every doubt was cleared with utmost respect for our feelings.

At the risk of forgetting some names we want to give special thanks to Dr. Silvia N.; Marie D., RN; Amy G., RN; Jessica E., social worker; and Mr. Barry C., VITAS manager. Lastly, but not least, thank you to all the day and night hospice aides that tenderly kept our mother comfortable.

Ana V.
Broward County, FL

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Just have to say how lucky we were to get VITAS taking care of my son, Eric N., when he was put on hospice, and especially taking him as a charity patient after he lost his Medicaid.

The best experience was being fortunate enough to have Erica D. as his nurse. She's a very special lady-always cheerful, caring, a great singer-and Eric loved her. She ALWAYS made him feel better. They had the same humor and were always cracking each other up. We love her like family.

I thank God every day that we were so blessed through our ordeal having VITAS and your nurse, Erica, to get us through it. THANK YOU!!!

Jackie P.
Pensacola, FL

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I was unfamiliar with the benefits of hospice for Alzheimer's patients like my mom, and I had never heard of integrating hospice services into assisted living. Sue, the admission nurse, patiently explained it to me, gave me literature, and assured me that it was ultimately my choice.

She was clearly speaking from a wealth of experience and from genuine compassion for patients who have lost the ability to speak for themselves.

I’m so glad my mom had VITAS looking out for her at the end.

Lia G.
Milwaukee, WI

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My mom was in hospice for five years and had three different agencies. VITAS was absolutely wonderful: Responsive, always available, kind, and compassionate. Losing my 104-year-old mom was tough but survivable with their help. Forever grateful.

Lise G.
Broward County, FL

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Thank you to VITAS Healthcare for their great home hospice support.

Once my mother entered their program, an army of help arrived without delay. The nurse administrator came the same day at 6:00 p.m. That was followed over the next few days with medical technicians and nurses daily. A social worker/counselor was provided for both the patient and family members. Care products and comfort medicine were provided and prescribed.

VITAS even arranged last rites. Another chaplain came by and was great to talk with. He did a wonderful job checking if our family was doing OK.

Going into this process, I did not fully understand what home hospice involved, but it was a tremendous help in managing my mother's end-of-life. VITAS had a comprehensive plan from the get-go that took much of the burden off our family. They demonstrated a sense of urgency in providing support.

Upon my mother's passing, VITAS executed their pronouncement and transportation plan, which also was a great help. I highly recommend families consider home hospice care and the VITAS team. Thank you to Connie, Richard, Emily, Andral, and others in the Dayton, Ohio office.

Barry L.
Dayton, OH

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I received your newsletter in the mail today. It touched on so many issues that I am still having. My wife passed away in July at St. Mary's Hospital. Your organization was extremely helpful and supportive. No, they went well beyond what I just said. I just can't think of words strong enough for all that they did.

Charles K.
Connecticut

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Angels and messengers. A deep truly heartfelt thanks to the VITAS team.

My dad's health was on rapid decline. After my dad was bedridden, it was nearly impossible to take care of his basic needs without the expertise of these well-trained, caring, loving team members.

They all came in with one thing in mind: integrity! Wow, they took care of my dad and supported our family before, during, and after my dad's final moments.

These special people need recognition for their dedication and time: Jocelyn, Daisy, Yolanda, Carlos, Mixie, Katia, June, Karen, Jose, Jairo, Gaith, and Maylin. My apologies if I missed anyone else who was involved.

A special recognition to RN Carlos P., who was extremely attentive and went above and beyond his call of duty to my dad's specific needs every time he came in. Carlos made my dad comfortable and made an impact on dad's care, even in his last moments.

We're forever in your debt. Thank you, VITAS team.

Margaret A.
Broward County, FL

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I sincerely thank VITAS hospice, where staff care to make a difference to the patients they support, including my sister, Christine, in palliative care.

The amazing people are: Dr. Hita S. and her team of doctors and nurses; Rebecca M., head of social services; and all the team of security in main lobby, particularly Jerry, who was so kind to always look after me, a visitor from Greece, to find a taxi home and make sure I did not get in the wrong one! Which I nearly did once.

I give all your staff five stars for the politeness and dignity with which they treat everyone and for their help to the patients they are attending.

Teresa M.
Broward County, FL