"You were our sheltered port in the worst storm I've seen in my 65 years.”

The emotional and spiritual pain of caring for a partner near the end of life is something no one can ever be truly prepared for. They are so much a part of our being. When we deeply love someone, they own a piece of our heart. Their suffering becomes our suffering.  

Jeffrey Pinner, who was caring for his wife, Andrea Johanns, after her long battle with cancer, entered into this difficult journey at the worst possible time: the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world began closing down, they found compassionate support at Hospice of the Western Reserve. 

“You were our sheltered port in the worst storm I've seen in my 65 years,” Jeffrey wrote. “You provided the care and support we so desperately needed. You kept us safe from the breaking storm of COVID-19, battening hatches against seas that swamped so many others. I will always be grateful for the safe harbor you gave us in our time of greatest need. 

“Our common humanity has called you to serve others by easing their passage from this world, and it is this same humanity which puts each of us in one another's chain of command. When Andrea and I called upon you in our hour of need, every one of you responded with grace, care, compassion and skills which we had no right to expect.  Know that all you have done and are still doing has been seen, understood and, most of all, appreciated. Your very great kindness will never be forgotten." 

Jeffrey, it was our privilege and honor to care for you and your beloved wife, Andy. We continue to be here, providing the dignity and compassion every life deserves no matter what the world throws our way.   -HWR