Author Archives: Amy Getter

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About Amy Getter

MS, RN, CHPN

HONORING NURSES

Posted on March 24, 2014 by Amy Getter

This week marks the end of National Women’s History Month.  I know some folks are pretty tired of designated days and months for every group, but I am enjoying thinking and reading about special women.  Those who fought for the right to vote, advocated … Continue reading →

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BEARING BURDENS

Posted on March 9, 2014 by Amy Getter

The question is asked in various forms, and goes something like this: “How long do you think she has, then?”  I know the question is coming, and I also know I am limited in my ability to answer with accuracy.  We often … Continue reading →

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LIFE IS LETHAL

Posted on February 22, 2014 by Amy Getter

 I read the word lethal in a poem, it leapt from the page and I had to stop a moment to consider the impact of the word; for us as humans, for a hospice nurse who watches people in their last hours … Continue reading →

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A CEREBRAL DEATH

Posted on February 6, 2014 by Amy Getter

Some symptoms that perplex and challenge the medical professionals that deal with dying patients have terms like “terminal agitation/anxiety” and “spiritual distress” at the end of life.  There are medications to alleviate these symptoms, but not effectively eliminating the tension and angst that … Continue reading →

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MOTHER’S DAY

Posted on January 18, 2014 by Amy Getter

“What they never tell you about grief is that missing someone is the simplest part.”       From Let’s take the long way home by Gail Caldwell My beautiful cousin, having nearly reached the hallmark of five years since the death of … Continue reading →

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THE TRAIN WHISTLE

Posted on January 6, 2014 by Amy Getter

Lying awake and listening to the train whistle in the early morning hours makes me want to get ready for a trip.  It also reminds me of the messages people share as their lives ebb and they prepare for their final journey. … Continue reading →

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ANOTHER DAY TO LISTEN

Posted on December 26, 2013 by Amy Getter

I re-read something I had written years ago, after the death of my mother.  It was titled, “Not just the daughter”, and I remembered the first-hand experience I had, as a family member, of hospice persons presenting themselves as the expert, and myself … Continue reading →

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LUCKY TO BE ALIVE

Posted on December 8, 2013 by Amy Getter

“Flying the friendly skies” is still a slogan, and as I boarded my flight I thought about Albert Einstein’s most important question to ask. “Is the universe a friendly place?”.  I said to myself, “I hope so”… as I put … Continue reading →

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No regrets

Posted on November 24, 2013 by Amy Getter

Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept  in, forget  them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. Ralph Waldo Emerson What else need … Continue reading →

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GIVING HONOR

Posted on November 14, 2013 by Amy Getter

In later years she lived in her memories.  They encompassed the early years of settling this land that would soon cradle her old bones.  Back then, the horse and buggy was the means of transport.  Then came the gravel road … Continue reading →

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