Center to Advance Palliative Care

We have kept a journal in the break room for writings about patients. Sometimes a story gives insight into the patient's philosophy. Sometimes it's just a simple "I remember her wonderful smile." Sometimes a funny incident. Writings aren't just about patients who have died but also about those who continue to live. Response to this seems to be cyclical. Some-times no writing for a while, sometimes a lot.

When things have been particularly difficult, I offer a "rock session with the chaplain." I spread an assortment of river stones on the breakroom table. Staff members chose a stone that represents a personal struggle or someone who is affecting them in a special way. Sometimes people feel overwhelmed and take a whole handful.

After a short reflection, they put the rock in a bowl of water in the center of the table as a way of releasing or diluting the burden. Sometimes people just rush in, select a stone, hold it briefly, and then drop it into the water. Often they sit down and talk things over with me. This helps not only with acknowledging sadness but also in dealing with all sort of frustrations, staff conflicts, and personal concerns.

Suzanne Hilton Smith
Martha Jefferson Hospital
Charlottesville VA