Jim’s Story

One person’s life cannot be shared in a brief story, just as their journey through hospice cannot also be shared in a brief story. I’ll do my best to shed light on the experience my family and I had as my beloved husband of 40 years, Jim, spent his final days in Sakura house.

Jim was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer on December 14, 2023. A man of few words- he wanted to remain in our home to battle this illness for as long as he could. We have lived in our beautiful century home since 1992. Our home is warm and welcoming, and the walls seem to tell a story of many people’s life. When my adult children , Holly (Ryan) and TJ  (Sarah) made the difficult decision to move Jim into hospice care- we hoped that Sakura would feel warm and comforting-just like home.

Jim moved to Sakura in late March 2024. When we arrived, by ambulance, we were literally welcomed with open doors and hearts. We were greeted with warmth and tenderness. I was so grateful to see Jim’s name on the wall outside his calm and peaceful room. When we entered we felt relief that it had been lovingly prepared for Jim. The music was gently playing, and the bed was made with a homestyle quilt- all things to support us with this difficult transition.

 As family and friends came to say goodbye the staff provided comfort and privacy and always just seemed to be available when anyone needed anything. There was a fun playroom for our grandchildren, Carson and Maddie (and baby Nash still in Mommy – Sarah’s tummy) , and private meeting rooms for family and friends to share tears, laughter and hugs. There was always a warm cup of coffee or tea and wonderful snacks and meals when we  seemed to forget to eat. Volunteers seem to always be around helping with so many things. The doctors, nurses and personal support workers provided Jim with such careful and gentle care- often talking and singing to him. The pressure of providing personal care seemed to melt away so we could just be with Jim. Our questions were answered with such compassion that it provided us with re-assurance that Jim was being taken care of by people who understood and cared for him and us.

On April 6, 2024, Jim died at the age of 64. As he left Sakura house a beautiful candle with his name was light by the cherry blossom tree in the main hallway. Soft gentle music was playing as Holly, and I followed Jim out.

Thank you does not begin to capture the gratitude I have for Sakura staff and volunteers. You’re a very special group of people who supported Jim, my family and me as we wandered through such a difficult time of our lives. I am confident that Jim felt such peace when he was at Sakura surrounded by love.

With profound and everlasting gratitude,

Sharon