It's a familiar refrain. Loved ones speak eloquently at funerals and everyone laments that the person being remembered is not there to hear the tributes. This was not the case, however, for husband and wife, Don and Beth. Rather than waiting for eulogies, Don asked friends and family members to leave messages on a very special VoiceQuilt for his terminally ill wife, Beth. While in hospice care, Beth was able to hear numerous words of love and support as she neared the end of her life. The outpouring of love eased her passage and helped to ease the sorrow of those left behind.The VoiceQuilt brought blessings to everyone involved. Beth was comforted and buoyed by the outpouring of love. Don and their children were gratified to hear about the many lives Beth had touched. Friends who were unable to visit Beth in person, due to distance or Beth's gradual weakening, were heartened knowing they were there with her in spirit – and in voice – and they were grateful they had a chance to tell her how much she meant to them.
In the early days of hospice care, Beth and Don talked about the sequence of voice messages and used VoiceQuilt's easy system to arrange them in a preferred order. Don played the VoiceQuilt for Beth several times as she slipped away. Even past the point where she could take visits, Beth was still wrapped in the loving words of those who cherished her most. And Don was moved by the many heartfelt expressions of love.
Beth passed away on February 15, 2010. Two friends from church were at her bedside, singing to her as she slipped away. We are grateful that her family will have the VoiceQuilt as a treasured family heirloom and a priceless reminder of a life well lived.
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