Waimaka o ka Lani

It's been somber at work lately.

We lost a dear patient who was well known and well-liked. She had an infectious laughter and a perky charisma. She was very sick but her death was still very shocking to all. For she had passed on the operating room table, while getting a transplant. It was very bittersweet. But in a way, she did not feel any pain. And I wished that she had hope in her heart as she left this world.

I wanted to make a card that reflected her heritage and personality. I researched Hawaiian sympathy cards and found this saying: "Waimaka o ka Lani." It means Heavens cry when a loved one passes.

One of my lovely co-workers also shared this quote:

"Butterfly -
As you danced in the light with joy,
Love lifted you.
As you brushed against the world so gently,
You lifted us."
-- by T.C. Ring

The Hula Anya stamp from TGF was colored with Copics (although now I'm realizing I need more markers for blending darker skin better). My patient liked pinks and purples so I incorporated those colors. I thought it would be nice to have her dance on hibiscus flowers. The butterfly stamp is from Stampin' Up.

I have lost many patients in my decade-long nursing career. But it does not get easier with time.

Thanks for visiting. Hug your loved ones.