Kate Morton, a 69-year-old patient with pulmonary fibrosis, spent her final days at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. After experiencing an acute worsening of her chronic lung disease, she was admitted to the hospital and chose hospice care when told there were no effective treatments available.
Maggie Gonzalez, RN, a critical care nurse at Phoebe Sumter, said, “Caring for her was an honor. I was grateful to be able to support her through such a difficult journey with pulmonary fibrosis. Knowing how this illness has touched my own family made the experience especially meaningful to me. I hope the comfort, dignity and peace we worked to provide brought some ease to her and all who loved her.”
Morton’s family and friends gathered quickly after learning about her condition. According to Sunday Laramore, a close friend, Morton’s main wish was to see her horse Moonshine: “She was just an animal person,” Laramore said. “She was an amazing horse trainer. She had been doing that since very early adulthood. She got Moonshine when he was 18 months-old, and she’s done everything with that horse. They just had an amazing bond.”
Because Morton could not return home due to her unstable health, staff at Phoebe Sumter arranged for both Moonshine and Morton’s dog Cowboy to visit the hospital. The team organized transportation for the animals within an hour of learning about Morton’s wish.
Kelsey Reed, DNP, Chief Nursing Officer & Chief Operating Officer at Phoebe Sumter stated: “It was our honor and privilege to care for Kate and to help fulfill her final wish of seeing her beloved horse, Moonshine, and dog, Cowboy, one more time. Moments like this are a powerful reminder of why we do what we do every single day. Our team is committed to providing not only exceptional medical care but also heartfelt support that honors the dignity, joy and individuality of each patient. Being able to give Kate and her family this meaningful experience is something we will never forget.”
The hospital coordinated with Air Evac Lifestream so that its helipad could be used for the meeting between Morton and her animals; EMS services were asked not to use lights or sirens on campus in order not to frighten them.
Laramore described the reunion: “It meant everything in the world to her. We surprised her, so she didn’t know where she was going. When she saw Moonshine and he saw her, she had the biggest smile on her face. It was the best thing any of us could have done for her right then.”
Morton spent about an hour with Moonshine and Cowboy alongside relatives and friends while feeding apples—Moonshine’s favorite treat—brought from the hospital cafeteria.
Carrie Hawkins, RN said: “I am truly grateful that I was part of her visit with Moonshine and Cowboy. Her face lit up as we turned the corner outside to see her animals. It was very moving to make this small request a reality. She was surrounded by love throughout her stay, and it was an honor to be part of Ms. Kate’s last ride.”
Morton died peacefully days later surrounded by loved ones.
“Kelsey and her team were unbelievable,” Laramore added.”They took such good care of Kate.From the time we arrived in the emergency center until Tuesday (when she passed), we could not have been more satisfied and happier with the care.Kate was spectacular.She was genuine.She was kind to everyone.She’s going to be missed.”
Her family requested donations in Morton’s memory be made online through the Phoebe Sumter Foundation or by calling 229-931-1300.
