To the man who agreed to let his loved one go,

I’m sorry we couldn’t do more.

I’m sorry we haven’t been able to figure out why, or how, or how to fix it.

I’m sorry you had to receive the news so suddenly, had to watch it unravel so quickly.

I’m sorry that the first time we meet was under such circumstances.

I’m sorry that I could do nothing but cry with you as you made your decision.

But also, thank you.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your loved one’s care.

Thank you for trusting that we did everything we could, and giving us direction and what your loved one would not have wanted.

Thank you for allowing yourself to be vulnerable, and welcoming my vulnerability in return.