Wrapped in Love: A Family's Experience with End-of-Life Care

Dana and her husband, Merlyn, shared a beautiful journey together for 62 years. It was a love story woven with commitment, creativity, laughter, and the immense joy of raising their family.  

Together they raised four children, three boys and a girl. In Dana’s final days, Mandy, their only daughter, stayed devotedly by her mother’s side, reflecting the same love and strength her mom had always shown them throughout their lives. Dana was an incredible mother who wholeheartedly encouraged her children to chase their dreams, no matter what they may be. She saw their potential and offered unwavering support, combining quiet strength with fierce love that shaped their lives.  

When Dana was admitted to Cox Monett Hospital for general inpatient hospice care, it was undoubtedly a challenging and emotional time for the family. Yet, from the moment they arrived, Mandy and her family were enveloped by a compassionate team that made them feel seen, supported, and embraced during such a tender season.   

Mandy held a special hope that Dr. Ronda Azelton, the hospitalist who had previously cared for her mother, would be there again. Dr. Azelton was indeed present. 

“Dr. Azelton took the time to explain everything to me in a way that truly made sense,” Mandy shared.  “She was calm, compassionate, and patient. Her presence gave me peace when I needed it most.”  

This kind of empathetic support was a constant throughout their experience, offering comfort during a time of deep emotional need. 

“I wanted to share our story,” says Mandy. “From the moment we arrived, everyone we encountered from nurses, environmental services staff, and the hospitalist, showed our family incredible compassion. It was more than just professional care; it felt deeply personal, and that made all the difference for us during such a challenging time.”  

Mandy found a sense of peace in the care her mother received, which allowed her to go home and sleep at night, a comfort many caregivers find difficult to achieve in such tender moments. 

“That’s how much I trusted them,” she says. “I truly knew Mom was in the best hands.”  

The kindness the family experienced went far beyond the clinical setting. The kitchen staff brought in a comfort cart each day, filled with snacks and drinks, a small yet profoundly meaningful gesture that brought them comfort.  

One of the most touching moments happened when a nurse brought in speakers to play Dana’s favorite music. The familiar songs by Elvis filled the room, wrapping Mandy in a blanket of comfort and nostalgia, bringing peace and serenity amid the uncertainty. 

"I’m not sure if Mom could hear the music," says Mandy softly, "but I truly believe it brought her peace, and it brought us peace as well."  

During Dana's final days, she was embraced by compassion, dignity, and a profound sense of humanity. The staff at Cox Monett became more than caregivers; they became cherished members of the family’s journey.  

"Cox Monett is, without a doubt, the best hospital we have ever experienced, and the care we received was truly exceptional," Mandy shares, as her eyes filled with tears. "We never felt alone. They walked this difficult path with us, holding our hands every step of the way." 

Stories like this shine a light on the heart of Cox Monett Hospital’s mission: delivering patient-centered care with excellence, empathy and deep respect. And in the eyes of one grateful daughter and her entire family, that mission was beautifully fulfilled.