On one of my home visits, I stepped into my hospice patient’s room, feeling the weight of the moment. They were calm, lucid—waiting. But not for me. They told me their deceased relatives had been visiting, standing right beside me as we spoke. Their loved ones were ready to take them on a journey, but they were allowed just one suitcase. The problem? They weren’t sure what to pack.

Hospice and palliative care clinicians have often seen this before. Across cultures, languages, and beliefs, people nearing the end of life often speak of seeing loved ones who have passed—welcoming them, guiding them. Science doesn’t have an explanation, but the shared experiences are undeniable.

As I continue to explore Near Death Awareness, I do know this: at the end of life, love remains. And maybe, just maybe, that’s all we really need to pack. Have you or a loved one experienced something like this? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

#EndOfLife #PalliativeCare #HumanConnection #CompassionInMedicine