My mother, Rose, was in hospice for over a year. She was 104 years of age and, in her opinion, living too long. Mom had been ready to travel on for a long time. She had been a very active woman, kick boxing, Zumba exercising, going out dancing and laughing with her friends. She read voraciously. Her mind was sharp. Unfortunately, she had a fall that set her back big time. She went to rehab, was home-bound, and then entered an assisted living facility until the end of her life on January 19, 2024.

I had many conversations about death with my mother, which helped form my own feelings and thoughts on how to go about facing the end of life. My father used to say, “No one gets out of this world alive.” He was a cardiologist and traveled on at age 83, while in hospice a short time. I know he would think I am a good fit for this role.

I am blessed to have a close network of family and friends. My ex-husband of 32 years, a psychologist, told me that of all the people he’s ever known, I would be the best at this role. That meant a lot to me.

I am an open and non-judgmental woman. I have a passion for helping people and their loved ones through this delicate time. I have learned much about family dynamics throughout my nursing career and as a hospice nurse. I am excited about this next chapter of my life.

With compassion and respect, Lorie Fagin, R.N., End-of-Life Doula