When Sis Williams’ family first entered the hospital, they never expected their lives to change so quickly.
Sis went to the emergency room believing she was experiencing complications from COPD. After further testing, doctors discovered a mass. A PET scan confirmed the devastating news — cancer had spread throughout her body, except for her brain.
Sis was given an estimated six months to live.
Hospice care was called in right away, and Compass Hospice was there when her family needed them most. The very next day, the Compass team arrived with everything Sis needed — a hospital bed, oxygen, and medications. There was no waiting for insurance approvals or delays in receiving care. Support was provided immediately.
Two compassionate members of the Compass team came to complete Sis’ intake and explain the many services available to her and her family. While additional resources were offered, Sis was blessed to have her daughters by her side, caring for her and walking alongside her throughout her journey.
Each week, Marjorie from Compass Hospice visited Sis — even during difficult winter snowstorms. She became a trusted source of comfort, guidance, and reassurance. The nurse answered Sis’ questions honestly, explaining what to expect while providing the compassion and grace needed to face such an uncertain future.
“She would answer all of my Mom’s questions about what was coming honestly, yet with a grace that somehow made it doable to face the inevitable,” Sis’ family shared.
As Sis’ illness progressed, Compass continued to support her and her family through every step.
Because Sis was still eating, enjoying visits, and showing her strength, her family hoped they had more time together. But after approximately two months, Sis’ body could no longer fight.
Sis was a warrior. Cancer had challenged her three different times throughout her life, and each time she fought with incredible strength and determination. She faced every battle with courage, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.
Even after Sis’ passing, the connection between her family and Compass Hospice continued. Her hospice nurse, Margie, attended Sis’ funeral, a gesture that meant so much to those who loved her.
The family continues to receive letters from friends, family, and community members who made donations to Compass Hospice in Sis’ memory — a reflection of just how deeply she was loved.
“I hope the donations in her name will help you continue to do what you do,” her daughter shared. “It can’t be easy knowing your care is the final care, with so many emotions from families, but you just know what to do.”
For Sis’ family, Compass Hospice provided far more than medical support. They provided compassion, patience, comfort, and guidance during one of life’s most difficult moments.
From the first visit, when the family was overwhelmed with questions and uncertainty, to the final days of Sis’ journey, Compass Hospice remained by their side.
“You are in good — no, great — hands,” her family shared. “They are there every step of the way.”
Through hospice care, Sis Williams and her family experienced what compassionate end-of-life care truly means — dignity, comfort, and the reassurance that no one has to walk the journey alone.
