We all grow old and face the inevitable end of life. While death is a natural part of existence, the thought of being unable to care for ourselves in old age can be daunting.
For Maria, a former singing and piano teacher, her final days were spent in a care facility in Austinburg, Ohio. She knew her time was short, but she still longed for one thing: to hear her favorite hymn, How Great Thou Art, one last time.
Maria was fortunate to have Joshua Woodard, one of her former students, working at the care home as a hospice aide. Joshua had been taught by Maria from the age of nine, so their bond ran deep. When he learned of her final wish, he was determined to make it come true.
With the lyrics pulled up on his phone, Joshua sang a heartfelt rendition of How Great Thou Art, filling the room with the music Maria had cherished throughout her life. The moment was captured on film by Maria’s sister-in-law, preserving the emotional and tender tribute.
“Hospice workers are angels, but this hospice aide is truly special,” said Marti Adkins Redmond. “Maria taught voice and piano in her day, and Joshua was one of her students as a child. Special people hospice workers are.”
Sadly, Maria has since passed, making the touching moment even more poignant. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the compassion and dedication shown by caregivers who tirelessly support our elderly loved ones. Share this moving story to honor these extraordinary individuals and keep Maria’s memory alive.
