A year ago, I wouldn't have thought that I could write a comparative acute hospice review. It's not a subject anyone once first- or second- hand knowledge of. (I am not sure which would be worse.)

In Sioux Falls, Avera's is superior to Sioux Valley / Sanford. Sanford is a larger institution which is set up for a greater variety of ailments, but Avera's had a large number of very caring nurses, right their, in the hospice ward. Sanford's on-site hospice is an adjunct of intensive care, though inconveniently far away from it, where (according to the hospice worker) you will be checked on once a day.

While I know he would have wished his life to be a week or two shorter, my grandfather (very, very alert to the end) was well cared for by Avera's kind staff. And fortunately, we had an advocate among the RNs, and my father was able to pass well cared for. I cannot thank that man enough.

I wished so much for my dad to wake up. But I think it is better to sleep than to be in a place like that for long, in pain, and know where it is.

God bless you as well, and may he keep you loved and well,

Dan

When/if you feel like talking to a stanger who has been through something similar, and having someone to vent to. feel free to email. Venting and ranting may erase the pain and allow the good memories of your dad to push through to their rightful, primary place .

God Bless

Kevin

I am so truly sorry for your loss. It is difficult in ways I can somewhat understand. I was raised by my Grandfather who passed suddenly three years ago. Take some time to grieve and process. That is all I can hope to give you as advice.

You will be in my prayers.

Andrew Faltin

I feel great pain now, as an acquaintence of a great man lost and vicariously as a friend to his children.

Ideas of faith and justice and fairness fall apart at times like this. For some, there is solace in family or faith. For others, solace in solitude and reflection. For others, it is best to revisit the fond memories.

Your father was a kind, gentle man with a sharp mind, wit and zeal for life that refreshed those he met. I have told dozens of people who will never meet him the story of living on the beach and fighting wild dogs for his food and dealing with machete-wielding bus occupants.

Once, I called John to speak with him about some trivial matter at the apartment. Initially, however, I told him I was calling for legal help. I told him I'd run a bus full of nuns and children off the road. He said, “Aaron, for a big enough retainer, I'll make you a hero.”

He'll be missed greatly, but you know that very well.

You and your family are in my prayers and have my deepest sympathy.