In a hospital corridor, a deep and quiet stillness can take hold. Caregivers line the walls as a family walks with their loved one for the last time, a moment known as an Honor Walk. It is a moment that reflects both profound loss and extraordinary generosity.
“It is one of the hardest and most meaningful parts of our work,” said Vernne Victa, intensive care (ICU) clinical nurse II at Alameda Health System (AHS). “During an Honor Walk, families are facing unimaginable loss, and at the same time, they are choosing to give life to others. Helping them navigate those emotions takes compassion, patience and deep respect.”
Read more about the shortage, and how you can help, in this month’s Healthy Alameda column in the Alameda Post.