Woman to Women

Cheers to Books, Root Beer and Angels

A grown-up daughter's journey to help her dad live fully to the end

-Mary Beth Sammons

I have spent my career as a writer chronicling ordinary people who make an extraordinary difference in the life of others.

In the last two weeks, since my father has been tethered to the ICU angels who support him, love him and stay present for him as he faces what appears to be the end of a very full life - Hospice and what lies ahead - I have met many, many of them.

They are the nurses, respiratory therapists, PT's, chaplains, paramedics, doctors, and all who show up daily to spoon out their compassion and caring on the fifth floor of Hinsdale Adventist Hospital in suburban Chicago. I could name names: Robert, Bert, Sue, Sharon, Dr. Talbert, Dr.Miller, Linda, Brittany ... and I am sorry for not naming the dozens who care at his bedside round-the-clock.

On the eve of what appears to be Hospice, (however, my dad is a fighter beyond all fighters, the Rudy of medical odds, so I am the eternal optimist, despite what the doctors are preparing us daily for), I have learned to be grateful for the simple moments and the truths my dad has passed down to me. read more on root beer and books...