Patient & Family Hospice Testimonials

Testimonials are a way for family members and patients to share their VITAS experience with others who may be considering hospice care for a loved one.

Testimonials on this page were submitted through our Share Your Experience tool here on VITAS.com.

How was your experience with VITAS?

August 2023

5 stars

VITAS and their staff have been wonderful to my husband. I can truthfully say he is still alive because of their constant care and attention.

Helena M. in group #142 is an exceptional nurse and a tremendous asset to your company. My husband rarely smiles, but when Helena walks into the room, he actually beams, lights up and gives her his full attention.

Helena is professional, kind, caring, reliable, knowledgeable and follows up immediately with any request, problem or need. She fights for her patients. She is effervescent and an absolute delight. The family feels safe, comfortable and excited to have her as my husband’s nurse. My only request is that you never take her away from us.

Thank you also to Jessica, our social worker, who has always been there looking out for us. We truly appreciate VITAS and are pleased to have you in our lives and caring for my husband!

Susan G.M.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

Staff was amazing. Death is something hard to deal with, and they made the process comfortable. I am extremely grateful to have located such a nice, well-organized group of people.

Julia L.E.
Jacksonville, FL


5 stars

VITAS was wonderful! My 96-year-old aunt’s wish was to die in her home, and VITAS helped make that happen.

The staff was so kind and compassionate. They delivered medications, supplies, and medical equipment. Someone was readily available by phone at all times to answer questions and offer advice. I was amazed at the level of support they provided. The staff members that helped us through the final days were so knowledgeable, supportive, and kind. They helped us make sure that my aunt was comfortable and pain-free.

Liz N.
Chicagoland, IL


5 stars

My parents, Cesar and Yolanda I., received hospice care for the last couple of years from team 142 in Broward County.

We could not have asked for a more loving and caring team, from Dr. N., nurse Marie, social workers Jessica, Pam, and John Paul, nurse Erika, and HHA Kenesha! They were available 24/7 and always responded to our calls and concerns. They went over and beyond their daily work to ensure my parents were well cared for.

When Cesar and Yolanda were ill, they were there, every day, checking up on them or calling to see if we needed anything. They provided all medical care and supplies, even hospital beds, oxygen, wheelchair, and daily personal supplies, as well as physical therapy and music therapy, to name a few of the quality-of-life services and care they provided for my parents.

My father has since passed away, but the team was there for us every day. Now that dad is gone, I have to move my mom to live with me. She will continue with VITAS, and I hope and I pray we can receive the support of a VITAS Healthcare team like team 142. We were truly blessed to have their support during critical times in the life of my parents. I will forever be grateful and will miss team 142. May God always bless each of you.

Ana Maria R.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

Our hospice experience was in Los Gatos, CA (San Francisco area) with the wonderful hospice team #9810. The team was wonderful. They were loving and kind and always kept me updated on our family member. They worked well with the facility she was in. They loved and cared for her. They called to get background information on her likes and dislikes so they could plan a great care and activity routine for her.

We are so thankful for Sarah, Moshe, and the entire VITAS team for all they did for her.

Thank you!

Barbie B.
San Francisco, CA


5 stars

Thank you, VITAS, for all of the help with my father. He lived an incredible life to age 102. I could not have done it without VITAS and all of the amazing staff and team.

Isis S. was a blessing to my father. She bathed him four days per week. She truly cared about my father. She would talk with him, and my father loved her. She became family to us. She came in the house with love, patience, and always a smile on her face. I cannot thank you enough.

Nancy J.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

Words cannot describe how great our experience has been with the VITAS inpatient hospice unit in Cincinnati. The nurses and staff at this location are so caring, gentle, and compassionate for the patients that are receiving their end-of-life care, as well as their families. It was such a difficult time when my grandfather was in this unit, and I was blown away by the compassion that the staff showed to my grandfather and also my grandmother.

Judy, Julie, Danika, and all the other nurses that helped care for him were absolutely incredible. I really appreciate the overwhelming kindness, care, and compassion that this team provided to my grandfather in his final days. He will be dearly missed, but we're so happy that he was able to spend his final days here, comfortable, pain-free, surrounded by family, and cared for by some of the best nurses on the planet. Thank you to all of you!

Matthew S.
Cincinnati, OH


July 2023

5 stars

VITAS Healthcare is an excellent hospice provider. From our intake evaluation with Grace R., admissions nurse, I felt she valued the patient, Patricia, very much. Once Patricia was admitted to hospice care, our primary care nurse, Sarah G., communicated details on medications and physical support for Patricia. Sarah also arranged for massage service for Patricia’s clenched fingers.

I saw improvement for Patricia with the medication choices from VITAS. VITAS worked very well with the skilled nursing center and I only received positive interactions. Not to mention the VITAS volunteers who called me regularly to see if anything else was needed.

Thank you, VITAS Healthcare team, for providing the best hospice care that I have seen.

Bruce F.
San Francisco, CA


5 stars

The care, the love and the unconditional support for mom was just what mom and my family needed. VITAS has a special place in my heart. ❤️

Not knowing the process and the why of hospice care left me very unsure. However, the VITAS staff at Caraday Wurzbach (San Antonio, TX) made sure my family and I were well taken care of through face-to-face communication on a daily basis. VITAS was available for my family 24/7. Most importantly, VITAS kept mom’s comfort and dignity as a top priority till mom took her last breath.

This is not an easy journey for anyone. That is why I am grateful for VITAS and the care that was given to mom, to myself and the rest of the family. Thank you 🙏🏼 and thank you for the continued support through VITAS newsletters and support groups. 🙏🏼💜

Crizelda M.
San Antonio, TX


5 stars

I can’t thank VITAS enough for their help, care, help and diligence. Team 158 rocks! Drs N., R.; Pauline; nurses Dina and George; Teresa is the best! My father has been taken care of by this wonderful, committed amazing team! May God always bless you, guys!

Elio T.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

The team at VITAS took care of my mother when she needed them the most. They came into the nursing home and delivered caring end-of-life service to both me and my mother. I cannot thank them enough.

Marc W.
Pittsburgh, PA


5 stars

Everyone at VITAS Healthcare was so nice and professional. Any time you called, a friendly voice greeted you. My mom was given great care by the hospice staff during her days of transitioning, and I was given such care and support after her death. It is so nice to know that people who work in a company show sincere compassion. ❤️

La Gina G.
Virginia and Washington, D.C.


5 stars

My experience with the professionals that cared for not only my mom but our family during this very difficult time was amazing. We received weekly calls to "check on us." The caregiver, Isis, that came into my home to care for my mom was patient and empathetic. She was flexible and accommodating with her schedule when my mom was too sick for showers or resistant to care on a particular day.

The doctor overseeing the care in my home visited on more than one occasion, gave me his cell phone number and was very responsive. The social worker came with a blanket and true loving support. Eventually my mother was admitted to the inpatient floor at the hospital. The doctor, nurses (Nurse Helen is an ANGEL in nurse disguise) and caregivers were top notch.

A special thank you to the chaplain Rev. Renwick B. and the many others that visited us at the bedside until my mother passed peacefully with dignity and love surrounding her. Thank you to each and everyone of you. You are all amazing people.

Lisa C.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

We can’t thank the folks at VITAS enough for the service they provided during my father’s final days. We were completely unaware of the process for such care, and VITAS (special mention to our angel of a nurse, Tyree) knew exactly what to say/think/do in the most critical of times, regardless of the hour of day. Our family was comforted knowing that our father was receiving the best possible care and was able to pass with great dignity. We are forever grateful.

Desiree F.
Dallas and Fort Worth, TX


5 stars

I wanted to reach out and personally thank the ANGELS ON EARTH that came to assist my wife and myself during her passing.

Each member of your staff treated my wife with so much love and compassion.

THANK YOU!!!

John E.
Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties, FL


5 stars

Everyone has been so friendly and personable. Program 23 has helped me through my recent difficulties. Nurse Marlene checks on me every week, makes sure my heart and lungs are doing what they should. Bernie, my aide, comes 3X/wk. She cooks, cleans, does laundry and dishes, and makes my bed. I’m very thankful the VITAS people make feel they really care for me. I’m proud to have met these people.

Dr. M. was, again, very personable and really knew his stuff. They’ve all done very well to make me comfortable and breathe more easily! Thanks.

Virgil F.
Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties, FL


June 2023

5 stars

My mother, Arminda C., is doing well with the nurse, doctor and aide. I love the attention and personal touch from your staff. You guys are doing a terrific job! I recommend to everyone! Thank you so much. Helena, the nurse, is wonderful. Kaneesha is amazing! Dr. Sabiha K. is also a star! Love them all!

Iberia C.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

It has been a pleasure to have the assistance of several nurses caring for a dear friend who is more like a second mom of mine. She was diagnosed with a tumor near her chest about a year ago and now she is in the end of life and the nurses have been so helpful, making this process so much smoother. 

One of our nurses, Jerry, makes sure my mother and also the family have the comfort they need in these hard times. I want to personally let you know that there really are nice nurses out in the world who do their job like it was their own loved ones. Thank you to all the staff at VITAS!

Adriana V.
Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, CA


5 stars

VITAS and all that work there were the best thing that happened to our family. They stepped in to care for our mom when we needed it most. God placed these wonderful people in our and our mother’s life when he knew we needed it. They were with us every day until our mother passed peacefully at home. 

Many of the caregivers stated it’s not a job, it’s a calling, and I truly believe that. We couldn’t have cared for our mother at home without them.

From the bottom of our hearts: Thank you, VITAS.

Kim C.
Brevard County, FL


5 stars

The team at VITAS was incredibly helpful as we navigated the end-of-life process for my father. The nurses were available 24/7 to answer our questions and alleviate our many concerns. My brother and I will forever be grateful for the kindness and support we received during a very difficult time.

Anne B.
Chicagoland, IL


5 stars

To all the wonderful angels at VITAS,

Me and my entire family would want to thank you all for the wonderful care you have given to my ailing dad. You all made his last few days very comfortable and peaceful and pain free. The services were timely, and rendered with great care. You all are doing great service to the society. We are indebted to you all. Thank you 🙏 

I must mention about our god-sent physician who gave us very good explanation about the situation and care, which was very easy to understand and helped us in our decision-making process. The nurses and aides (my dad always waited for JUDE aka JUDO per my dad, Kathy, who called him big papa, and wonderful Mr. B) played a pivotal role in making my dad’s last days pain-free and comfortable. They were always smiling and helping. 

Also, we can’t thank enough to all the people who played huge roll behind the scenes :-) 

Thanking you all once again with loads of blessings.

Nehal A.
Chicagoland, IL


5 stars

Amazing, thoughtful, sincere, kind, caring and informative are only a few words to describe the VITAS caregivers. 

Our overnight RN, Dan, was absolutely amazing. He was extremely informative, sincere, and thoughtful. He explained everything that was happening every step of the way. He was with us for three consecutive nights, and we couldn’t have asked for better. 

When he informed me that someone else would be back the following night, I panicked. He told me not to worry and that my mom would be in good hands. 

The next night, Mr. R. came to us. As soon as he began speaking, we knew that God had sent him to us. He was a kind, caring and faithful servant. We didn’t know it, but that morning would be the day that my mom would pass. 

We talked about God and that beautiful place that my mom would go to when she transitioned. Our Heavenly Father knew what he was doing when he sent Mr. R. to us. He stayed with us long after the time he was supposed to leave. He stayed until the funeral home came to pick up my mom’s body. 

We are very grateful to VITAS and these two beautiful people that helped care for my mom. 

We also had two other day nurses that came out. They were outstanding. They jumped in to do what was needed to keep my mom comfortable due to constipation without a second thought. These two ladies definitely had a calling for nursing. It showed how much pride they had in caring for my mom. 

Wherever these people are, I pray that God blesses them and their families. I will recommend VITAS to anyone I know that needs hospice care.

Rachel C.
Dallas and Fort Worth, TX


5 stars

My mother is in hospice, and they have provided the most loving care with so much dignity. They also take care of the family. I didn’t leave my mom’s bedside - they would worry if I ate, rested! Wow! I felt I was with family! I found comfort with the nurses and you can tell how they really care - and go beyond!

Eileen F.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL


5 stars

We are most grateful for Rabbi Moshe’s kindness, his counsel and caring as chaplain for or son, Matthew, during his 2-month hospice care and through the trauma of his passing. Rabbi Moshe has continued to visit both Matthew’s wife, Maria, and my husband and me for an entire year. His caring, his kindness, his understanding and counsel and his hugs nurturing our broken hearts with his professional “good grief concepts” have been needed and welcomed immeasurably. We have been truly Blessed by his continued presence and feel it has not only helped us through this long year of loss, Rabbi Moshe has made our lives and outlook better. Thank you.

Lynne P.
San Francisco, CA


May 2023

5 stars

To say thank you is not enough for the exceptional care my father received while on hospice services. My father looked forward to his visits with HHA Richard, Chaplain Esmail, and Nurse Mondie. They treated him with kindness, respect and most importantly dignity as he started to experience forgetfulness.

My father eventually passed in the VIPU, once again the care was exceptional.

I will be eternally grateful to VITAS and the wonderful staff that cared for my father during his final days.

Lisa S.
Connecticut


5 stars

Wonderful staff with clean, upscale rooms. The nursing staff was so gentle and caring with my father in his final days and greatly exceeded my expectations. The staff to patient ratio was spot on and everyone was treated respectfully in a difficult set of circumstances. I sincerely thank them for what they do and the attitude they have while doing it.

Ryan S.
Cincinnati


5 stars

Wonderful, compassionate staff. My mother passed at the hospital, staff helped through the process with loving care. Chaplain ministered with music and spoke spiritual blessings.

Everyone should consider VITAS at time of need.

Cornelia D.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL


5 stars

During his stay my husband received the highest quality of care possible. The capable medical and management teams were supportive of him and us, answering our calls and questions. The social worker and the chaplain were helpful, compassionate and available, and the atmosphere calm and comfortable. My daughters and I are forever grateful to all of the individuals involved.

Parvin K.H.
Dallas and Fort Worth


5 stars

I have been having a hard time writing this testimonial. How do I find the words to show our gratitude and respect for the VITAS Healthcare staff. My husband was in the late stage of Lewy Body Dementia and they stepped up to the plate and cared for him 24/7. The doctors, nurses, social workers and other team members became like family.

If you have a loved one in need of hospice, my son & I highly recommend VITAS Healthcare in Orange County.

Angela T.
Orange County, CA


5 stars

I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent service that the staff at VITAS Healthcare has provided my mother Alba D. So far I could not be happier with the very attentive care that she has received.

My mother has expressed to me that Frank C., Juana C. and Yunianka M. have been especially caring kind and loving. They have quickly become an extended part of our family and are the main reason I’m writing this. The health care industry could use many more people like you have on your staff, and even though I’ve never met them personally, I would like to thank them for the comfort and care they provide to my mother. This extra measure is very important to me.

I would also like to thank my mother’s social worker Maggie, whom I did meet on one occasion and I found her to be very warm and caring. She advised me that she was available for whatever questions we might have.

Once again thank you to everyone for the excellent service and comfort that our extended family has provided us.

Frank D.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL


April 2023

5 stars

My brother Mike was admitted to the Lake Wales Inpatient Unit. He lived out his final week in this facility. I can’t express the gratitude my family and I have for the care he received. The small but mighty group of nurses displayed the utmost compassion, dedication, and care. His respiratory therapist, Kimberly, was a lifeline for us. We always felt loved and respected. We don’t know how we would have made it through this difficult time without them.

Nicky P.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL


5 stars

We enrolled mom with VITAS about 2 months ago, and the response and care we have received from our Team 155 have been incredible. Thanks for helping us care for our beautiful mother.

Sudie B.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

Thank you so much for the care you gave to my dad and the support for our family. You stayed with him until the end and cared for him with dignity and respect. Your care and kindness have made a lasting impression on our family. Many thanks to Shannon and Mary Sue for taking such great care of him, and to all the continuous care nurses, we wouldn’t have made it through without you. Special thanks to Chaplain Tom for the prayers and words of encouragement. You made a huge impact in our lives.

Paula S.
Pensacola


5 stars

We are so grateful for the wealth of knowledge and incredible service provided to our loved one by Team 1165. They came at the most difficult time of our family dealing with our loved one’s care and comfort, and they made us feel reassured in our decisions to care for him with dignity and live at HOME. They have provided all the resources and care to make that possible. And that is the biggest gift anyone could wish for at such a difficult time.

We are forever grateful for the care and patience they have demonstrated and for the support they have given us! God Bless you all and the work you do! Thank you, thank you a million, thank you! 

Maria L.R.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL


March 2023

5 stars

Jennifer and the whole VITAS Team 145 went above and beyond to assist in the transition for my mother from her ALF to a nursing home. This was a difficult process, and they were extremely helpful, even to the point of helping transport her personal effects since I do not reside in Florida, and the move needed to be done quickly.

Robert P.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

My father passed peacefully in his sleep at the West Allis, WI, location of VITAS. We came in very worked up and worried about our dad who had had a terrible evening suffering in pain. They expedited the process to help us get in and help my dad get relief. We had never experienced hospice and were all leery and protective of our dad. They did a great job reading the room, helping comfort us, and gaining our trust. 

My dad proceeded to stay in hospice for 4 days prior to going to heaven. Staff comforted us, prayed with us, and laughed and cried with us. They did a great job helping understand the death process and what we might expect. Dr. M. was fantastic. What a kind, knowledgeable man. I can’t say enough about their staff.

It was very hard to lose my dad, but I am so grateful to have met these people and to have experienced their loving embrace as we went through it. God Bless them all!

Gwen C.
Milwaukee


5 stars

I want you to know that Lilly, Jessica, and ALL of Team 142 have been a blessing to us. We appreciate Lilly who has been our main contact and has been hands-on since the beginning of mom’s ailment. Lilly is an angel on earth and goes over and above to make you feel special and loved. She has been and continues to be a warm, giving, and loving source of information and support.

Rose V.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

My sister suffered from terminal lung disease and lived alone. I lived in Madison and really needed to have someone keep an eye on her as she was falling more and declining. I went to the internet and found VITAS—the best choice I have ever made. From the moment the team came to evaluate her, both she and I reached a new comfort level. Her home health team was OUTSTANDING, and they not only became her caregivers but also her friends. 

She knew anytime she felt frightened or unsure of her physical state, they were just a phone call away. I was ALWAYS called following a visit and honestly informed of her disease process. After 4-5 months, she was referred to inpatient hospice. As she was progressing quickly, I moved into her room with her. The staff was nothing short of angelic. They listened to my concerns and deferred to me on decisions for her. They not only went out of their way to keep her comfortable but also met my emotional needs. Dr. M. (the hospice physician) was the kindest, most compassionate man I have ever met. Reverend Russ visited daily and ministered to both her and my spiritual needs. 

After 7 days, she passed with dignity and supreme care. I HIGHLY recommend the team at VITAS to walk both the patient and the family through this difficult period.

Sandy W.
Milwaukee


5 stars

I could not imagine a more enriching and peaceful place for my mother to have spent her final days. The anguish and exhaustion that accompanied her passing was much easier for my family to bear due to the compassionate, professional, and incredibly caring staff at the beautiful facility VITAS has in Palm Beach County, Florida. My sincerest and deepest thanks to everyone there.

Mitchell M.
Palm Beach County, FL


5 stars

The day I placed my father in hospice was a very challenging one. I was immediately bombarded with questions, concerns, fears, and even guilt. What now? My VITAS team was introduced to us and hit the ground running. They were extremely informative and answered all my questions. They were excellent when it came to communicating with us. The ENTIRE process was handled with exceptional care. My father’s needs were always met by a team of amazing people. They were all extremely warm and empathetic to our needs as worried family members.

I would 100% recommend them to anyone going through this stage of life.

Yvette F.
Broward County, FL


February 2023

5 stars

I have just started hospice care; today was the first meeting with my case manager, Alie, RN. I met earlier with Raniel, the intake nurse, and Zel, another nurse who interviewed me. All came to my home. I also met Roland, the chaplain, and Rebekah, my social worker, and spoke by phone with Eva, Jocelyn, and May.

Even after just one day, I have felt comfort and relief as a result of these meetings. The expertise and efficiency of these caregivers deserve rave reviews and the highest praise. I cannot imagine being in better hands.

Greg K.
San Diego


5 stars

After being turned down for multiple hospice facilities, VITAS went above and beyond to help our family and my dad. From the initial call until he died, we were treated with compassion and respect every step of the way. The caregivers at the Lecanto, FL, location were outstanding. Thank you for providing a peace-filled passing.

Pam J.
Lake and Sumter Counties, FL


5 stars

My mother has been with VITAS for some time now. She suffers from dementia and physical disabilities. Team 155 has been so caring and supportive from day one. As a family, we know we can count on VITAS to make my mother’s journey (as well as the entire family that loves her) as good as we can hope for it to be. Thanking you always—our Team Manager Katucha, our nurse Dorothy, our Doctor N., all the staff that helps us, Judith, Luke, Dion, the chaplain, music therapists, night staff and weekend staff who we’ve spoken with at times—just everyone. Thank you for the blessings.

Karen P.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

I was extremely impressed with the service and care my mother received. Every single member of our team was prompt and kind. We are so grateful for the help, especially through such a difficult time. The doctor took her time to answer all our questions. And she had a great bedside manner. The nurses made sure my mother was comfortable and attended to. They also helped to comfort us as we saw my mom’s condition decline.

I am very grateful for all the team members did for us.

Fernando V.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL


January 2023

5 stars

This was my first time experiencing hospice, and it completely exceeded my expectations. There are several nurses who cared for my mom while she was in inpatient hospice care that I would like to give a very special thanks to: Cathy, Beth, Rema, and Jennifer always went above and beyond to care not only for my mom but me as well.

Their kind and caring manner were so appreciated. We were at the facility over the Christmas holiday, and I was so impressed walking out of the elevator to see the entire floor decorated for the holidays. It made such a difference to feel that comfy, homey feeling. I later found out it was Cathy who decorates! It matched her personality and made me love her more. 

My hope is that the company takes this review and lets these four amazing nurses know what an impact they made in my life at the most difficult period of my life. They should be recognized and rewarded for their empathy, kindness, and high standard of care for my mom [as] the patient and me [as] the family. I cannot sing their praises enough. They made a very difficult trial and burden easier to handle by sharing it with me. They are amazing nurses and human beings ❤️

Melissa T.
Dallas and Fort Worth


5 stars

The care and compassion that you all showed my son in his last days were just a beautiful thing to see. I could not have done it without all of you. Thomas loved all of you. I cannot thank you all enough.

Anne D.
Broward County, FL


5 stars

All I can say is, “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” I was amazed at the care VITAS provided for my father, especially in his last days. All the nurses and staff were wonderful. They were quick to respond and attentive to his needs. As a retired healthcare administrator, I was thoroughly impressed with their services, making a difficult situation flow as smoothly as possible. [I] would not hesitate to recommend them to family and close friends.

Irene W.
Brevard County, FL


5 stars

Our family is extremely grateful for all the team and staff that helped in the care of my father up until his passing. They were very caring and supportive with their care of both my father as well as our mother. The compassion and respect they showed her during this difficult time was also very genuine. When we had questions, they answered them; and when we had more, they got those answers, too.

We can’t thank all of you enough! VITAS staff in Lakeland—we appreciate your professionalism, caring, and understanding!

Debbie W.
Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties, FL


5 stars

VITAS did an absolutely fantastic job of helping me keep my sanity during this very difficult time. ALL OF THE NURSES WERE AMAZING! They came when I called for my father, no matter how late it was. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without them. Thanks.

Donovan R.
Dallas and Fort Worth

Please note that the star ratings shown reflect all reviews submitted for a given location. We have selected certain experiences to be included on the Share Your Experience page, which may not be representative of all reviews.