During my time volunteering with hospice, I formed a particularly meaningful relationship with one of the patients that I got the pleasure of spending time with, an older man with progressive Parkinson’s disease.
One of the most profound moments I shared with this patient was when he finally opened up to me after not seeming very interested in the conversation for a few weeks. He was very serious at first and would only answer in very brief answers, not engaging much in conversation. I know that some people could be like this so I didn’t push him and just continued to interact with him as he wished. One day this completely changed when mentioning Villanova basketball, and I could see his face completely light up in excitement and passion. He told me how he was reminded of something that he used to and still did love and have passion for that he had been forgetting and not putting time into anymore. We connected on this topic and for the next visits we always spoke about the recent games and any new or old news that he knew. It was so amazing to see a spark in him return through as he seemed very sad and down before being in hospice.
Reflecting on my hospice experience, I realize how much I have grown, both personally and in my awareness for others. Initially I feared that facing mortality so directly would be overwhelming. However, I learned that hospice is not about death but it is about ensuring that patients feel valued in their final days. My interactions with patients like the one I mentioned above taught me to listen and be present, and to appreciate the power of small moments. I also learned to sit with discomfort, to accept that sometimes there are no easy answers, and to find meaning in simply offering companionship.
The documentary, Being Mortal, resonated deeply with my experiences. The film emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy and quality of life over aggressive treatments at end of life. This perspective aligns with what I witnessed in hospice care which is that when patients are given honest conversations and choices, they often prioritize comfort and meaningful connections over medical interventions. Being Mortal reinforced my belief that end of life care should be centered around respect, and the wishes of the patient. It also challenged me to consider how I will navigate difficult conversations as a future physician, ensuring that my patients feel heard and empowered in their decisions.
My hospice experience has profoundly shaped my understanding of medicine. It has shown me that healing extends beyond curing disease; it encompasses emotional support, advocacy, and creating space for patients to voice their fears and hopes. This program has deepened my desire to pursue a career in emergency medicine, where I will encounter patients in vulnerable moments and need to make compassionate, patient centered decisions.
For my medical school application, I would emphasize how my hospice work has prepared me to approach medicine with empathy and an appreciation for the human side of healthcare. It has given me the skills to communicate with patients facing difficult realities and the ability to provide comfort even when a cure is not possible. Above all, it has reaffirmed my commitment to ensuring that every patient, regardless of their situation, feels valued.