Our Stories - Life is Precious

Enduring Love
John and Jacqueline Clay

May, 2016

John Clay Jr. has been married to his lovely wife Jacqueline for 21 years. In that time they have been through many ups and downs, and both have struggled with health issues that brought strain and stress to their lives. Through it all, their love for each other has stayed strong, and their commitment to one another has been reinforced by their devotion to love each other in sickness and in health. Two years ago, Mr. and Mrs. Clay found themselves at a crossroads when Jacqueline’s health issues became too much for John to manage at home. They were faced with the difficult decision of having Jacqueline moved to a facility where her medical care needs could be met. John, dealing with his own health issues, has not been able to visit her since the move.  

John is now receiving hospice services from Hospice at Home, and expressed that he would like to visit his beloved wife. He longed to see her again and wanted to make sure that she was happy and well cared for. To make this visit possible, John would need wheelchair transport to take him from his home in Benton Harbor to the facility in Three Rivers where his wife resides. When Medic 1 was informed of this need they immediately offered support. Understanding the importance of this meeting between John and Jacqueline, Medic 1 and the Hospice at Home Life is Precious program underwrote the transportation costs. Medic 1 driver Diamond Jett insisted on providing John’s transport, staying at work two hours after her shift had ended.

John was excited and nervous the day of the trip, and anxiously awaited his reunion with Jacqueline. When he finally arrived, he needed to be brought in by wheelchair because the trip had already taken much of his strength. As they wheeled him into the room he saw his wife, and her eyes welled with tears. Before John could get to her Jacqueline called out, “I love this man!” They hugged, kissed, and sat side by side in their wheelchairs holding hands as they spoke. They caught up on daily events, reminisced about the past, and were able to provide comfort and support to each other for the first time in two years. Despite the presence of hospice and facility staff, it was as if John and Jacqueline were the only two people in the room. At the end of their visit, they discussed staying in contact by phone. John returned home much more tired, both physically and emotionally. He was sad to say goodbye again, but had a sense of peace knowing that Jacqueline was in a good place and well cared for. He also had the reassurance that through all of their struggles, their love had endured.

Thank you to our community support that make special moments like this possible.