ABSTRACT
It is a great privilege to be invited to share the last days of someone's life, to hold their hand and ease their spirit. We may still harbor some anxiety about our readiness or our ability, but it is time to put our fears behind us and move forward. Whether we are a professional caregiver, a relative, or a hospice or palliative care volunteer, caring for a dying person can be demanding both emotionally and physically. During this time, caring for oneself becomes paramount. This chapter presents a story, Giving Care, written by Ronna Edelstein, that poignantly describes the trials and tribulations of caring for her aging parents, and her underlying need, in Nepo's words, to "realign herself with the stream of life.".
