Some partings remain etched in memory forever. In those few last moments, the most important thing is to be there – to hold hands, to share the silence, to laugh together.
We bring you a story from the neighborhood, the story of our volunteer Aleksandra, which shows how much a smile, a gentle touch and a warm word can change someone’s day.
“Many are uncomfortable talking about what comes at the end of life – about death. And everything that can be talked about – is human. And everything that is human – is worthy of our attention.
My grandmother’s last days in the German hospice were difficult to watch, listen to and experience. Still, those were the rare moments when we could all be together – to hold her hand, share jokes, or just be silent in the same space.
That morning she got up and said, “I’m ready.” Those words cut us off. We looked at her breathlessly. Then she added: “My Clara is coming today, we have a painting class. I can’t wait.”
In an instant, the pain, numbness and pallor disappeared from her face. With a smile and her last strength, she went to the painting class. A few hours later, she was no longer with us. She really was ready – and she really painted her life the way she wanted.
That moment was a turning point for me. I realized how much it means to support those who in difficult times do not have the opportunity to “paint their own way”.
I also remember my first day with the users of the BELhospice center. I entered the apartment with a doctor and a nurse. The meeting started calmly, and then I was surprised by the tears of a family member. I could only say one thing: “I’m here for you. You’re not alone.”
Over time, our meetings turned into joy – both for them and for me. In the little stories from the past, drinking coffee, the silence we shared, I found deep encouragement and understanding of what it means to be with someone.
For us, maybe it’s a little – a conversation, a book, a song, a favorite series, a kind word. For them, it is an encouragement, a smile and the most important thing – the feeling that they are not alone.
Such moments, which look where many turn their heads and where the system often fails, enrich and fill with love. So let’s stop, look around and ask ourselves – what can we give to others, even to someone we don’t know, who might live in our neighborhood and to whom our smile, gentle touch and warm word would mean everything” – Alexandra shared with us.
You too can be a part of this story. Volunteer, donate or share this story – because your smile, time or word of support can mean the world to someone.