Patient & Family Hospice Testimonials
Testimonials are a way for family members and patients to share their VITAS experience with others who may be considering hospice care for a loved one.
Testimonials on this page were submitted through our Share Your Experience tool here on VITAS.com.
How was your experience with VITAS?
April 2026
I had a very good experience with everyone, especially the head nurse, Maylin. The doctor, the chaplain, Odalys, all the nurses — everyone I met was kind, compassionate and sweet with me and my love. I wish I could remember all their names, but my mind is still in shock.
I would like to thank all the team members I met, and may God bless you all. 🙏🏻❤️
Anna Maria R.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL
Very prompt and knowledgeable. Bonnie was very informative and explained everything very clearly.
Denise D.
Philadelphia, PA
With sadness, I lost my beloved husband in late March of this year. He struggled for quite some time with dementia and, for his last three years, was under VITAS care.
I cannot express how grateful I am to VITAS Team 2506. It can be difficult to assist someone with dementia, especially as progression worsens. Our VITAS team has been like family. They were always patient, compassionate, kind and dependable. I honestly do not know what we would have done without the support we received.
Even in his state of dementia, my late husband seemed to understand the love and kindness he received. He would sometimes tenderly say "I love you" to the nursing assistants and smile as they were helping him. The chaplain has also been of great comfort and guidance especially after his passing. We have asked him to deliver the eulogy.
To the team of Cherlie, Martha, Kim, Gladys, Derrick and especially Brittney, thank you so much. Our family will remember your kindness for years to come.
Thank you — from your "grandma," as you have come to know me.
Melrose S.
Lake and Sumter Counties, FL
They are very kind and compassionate! They got my mom enrolled right away when her other hospice company went out of business without notifying the patients! They made sure that she did not miss any of her medications! The communication is excellent. The nurses and other staff members really seem to care!
I would definitely recommend this hospice group!
Sarah W.
Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, CA
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for Nurse Yirian L. and Dr. Aleida H. during my mom’s time in hospice care. They have been incredibly compassionate, kind and attentive, always making sure my mom is comfortable and cared for with dignity. Their quick responses and willingness to help at any moment have brought so much reassurance to our family during this difficult time.
We are truly grateful for the care and support they continue to provide.
Alicia L.
Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, FL
Your team went out of their way to help, and your nurses were able to help and educate me on the situation. Your team cares about the patients and delivers excellent care.
Jerry W.
Houston, TX
I rarely write reviews, but my experience with VITAS was incredible from the start. Earlier last month, my dad, who was battling cancer, had a medical emergency. He was released, and after a few weeks of back and forth, he decided to seek additional care and chose VITAS.
Intake was on a Sunday afternoon, and not even 12 hours later, I was on the phone with Nurse Maribel. She is a rockstar. She explained everything clearly, and I got more information from her in that first conversation than I ever received from the assisted living facility where he lived. From that point on, the communication never stopped. It continued all the way through to when my dad passed.
My dad’s condition deteriorated very quickly, and during that time, we also received counseling from Chaplain M., who made us feel comfortable as we navigated such a difficult moment. Everyone we encountered was professional, compassionate and deeply caring, from the CNA who helped bathe my dad to Kacie, who was a tremendous resource for me as I arrived from out of town, to Nurse Latoya, who patiently supported family members struggling to accept how serious my dad’s condition had become.
Perhaps most importantly, Nurse Opal was there with me and my dad when he transitioned. She answered every question I had with knowledge and compassion. She treated my dad with care and respect until the very end. Having her there made a difficult moment so much easier to bear.
They treated my dad with dignity until the very end, and that means more to me than I can put into words.
Ana Sylvia B.V.
Seminole, Orange and Osceola Counties, FL
VITAS Healthcare provided wonderful support for my mother’s passing on April 8. Augusta C. and Briana E. are absolute angels.
Their kindness and love for my mami until her last breath were a gift to our family.
We cannot thank them enough for their devotion and care.
Liliana P.
Houston, TX
The quality of services my husband (the patient) and I received from VITAS made his journey much less painful.
Our nurse, Amy, and social worker, Anise, kept us informed about my husband's condition and let us know what to expect next. We did not have surprises. They were caring and supportive of my husband, and they never lost patience with him (or me).
They answered all our questions thoroughly and honestly. They were true professionals and true friends.
Linda “Kathy” K.
Chicagoland, IL
March 2025
My husband, Philip R., was taken to VITAS Coral Springs on Feb. 24, 2026. He was treated with the utmost respect and superior care.
Chaplain Ken introduced himself and prayed with us when we first arrived. He made us feel comfortable and at peace. The nursing staff was excellent. Hope, Angelita, Jody, Keneisha and others took very good care of my husband. I was able to go home to rest while feeling assured that my husband was getting the very best care.
The nurses called me at least once a day and sometimes twice a day to give me updates on his condition. He passed on Saturday, Feb. 28, and had a very peaceful death. I want to thank everyone at VITAS Coral Springs for the love and compassion they showed my husband and family.
Rita R.
Broward County, FL
My 92-year-old dad was under hospice care with VITAS for five months. We had an amazing care team.
Augusta was my dad’s nurse. Augusta was very kind and gentle with my dad, which was very much appreciated. She is very knowledgeable about cancer and showed us how to care for my elderly dad’s needs. She is dependable and punctual, and she solved every problem that we encountered.
This end-of-life journey was a new experience for my family, and there were a lot of fear and many unknowns. We are extremely thankful to have had Augusta with us on this journey. She held our hands and helped us through it.
We are forever grateful.
Donna M.
Houston, TX
I wanted to let you all know that Brittany out of Fairview Heights, Ill., was a lifeline for us. She took care of not just my mom but me as I was caring for her. I don't know what I would have done without her. She was born for this job.
There are no words to express the empathy, compassion, support and knowledge that she used to comfort and support us.
This was the worst time of my life, and I was just thankful for her to be there with me and my mom as we struggled through the end of her life.
She will always be part of our family. Thank you, VITAS, and thank you, Brittany.
Dawn Y.
Fairview Heights, IL
When going through the most difficult time of my life, it was a pleasure working with Monica E.C. She was so supportive and caring, and she taught me so many things I would have never known without her. She has compassion, love for her patients and understanding. She is so devoted to her job. Without her, I felt so lost.
Thank you for all you have taught me and the care you have shown my husband. I wish more nurses would have your compassion, love their job and treat their patients as if they were family.
Joseph R.
Broward County, FL
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for the care my wife Janice has received at Ruth House and to recognize a member of your staff who demonstrated exceptional skill and composure during a medical emergency. Recently, my wife experienced a severe drop in blood sugar, as low as 31, requiring the immediate response of paramedics.
The nurse assigned to her care, Allie, handled the situation in a way I can only describe as grace under fire.
I have worked at several nursing and rehabilitation facilities over the years and have witnessed my share of emergency responses. What Allie demonstrated was not simply competent; it was exceptional. The blend of calm, concern and focused action she brought to that moment was the finest I have ever witnessed in a situation of that kind.
The entire staff at Ruth House has been consistently excellent, and I want that noted as well. But what Allie showed that day was next level, and I believe it deserves specific recognition.
If my wife ever faces a similar situation in the future, my hope is that someone like Allie is there. Your patients and their families are fortunate to have her.
Richard D.
Milwaukee, WI
I will start by stating that I am an RN of 50 years and have dealt with hospice in three states. I was very hesitant to place Mom in hospice due to past patient experiences. Out of three agencies I interviewed, I chose Mount Dora VITAS.
In the most difficult time, VITAS was incredible. Every team member showed professionalism, compassion and genuine care for Mom and me. They were attentive and responded to our every need.
From the person delivering the equipment to the late-night calls to the day-to-day needs, everyone was great.
Nuvia (RN) and Francis (the social worker) were in constant contact, making sure mom had the care needed and giving support to me.
After mom died, I received calls from the chaplain and a visit from Francis to see if I needed anything. They also collected some of Mom's clothing to make a Memory Bear as a memento for me.
Today, I received a hand-signed sympathy card signed by all the team members. As you can tell, I am eternally grateful for all that VITAS did for Mom's last days. Thank you.
Daun B.
Lake and Sumter counties, FL
February 2026
There truly are no words to express how deeply we appreciate VITAS and the hospice care they provided.
The entire staff at VITAS was wonderful in caring for our loved one. Everyone was knowledgeable, compassionate and kind. They kept Mary comfortable, treating her with dignity and respect through her journey while keeping us informed every step of the way.
Thank you, VITAS!
Constance M.
St. Louis, MO
From the very beginning, I felt an immediate emotional connection with Gabby S. As the assigned RN for our family, she has provided not only exceptional medical knowledge but also incredible emotional support for me and my entire family. During such a difficult time, Gabby has been a steady, compassionate presence — always patient, understanding and reassuring. She consistently goes above and beyond to make sure we feel supported, informed and truly cared for.
Sonia C. has been just as wonderful. She is incredibly caring and always willing to step in and help in any way she can.
Whether it's offering comfort, reassurance or simply being there to do something I can't, Sonia's kindness and compassion have made a meaningful difference for our family.
Both Gabby and Sonia are deeply understanding, compassionate and genuinely caring.
I am so grateful for the support, comfort and dedication they have shown us, and I will always appreciate the impact they've had on my family during this time.
Janeen B.
Seminole, Orange and Osceola counties, FL
My father passed away last week under the care of VITAS Healthcare in Peoria, IL.
Our family would like to extend our deepest and most sincere "thank you."
From the time your team of wonderful, caring and expert professionals stepped into my father's house, you brought a world of sunshine into a dark and gloomy setting. Your work and expertise were way beyond what we could have ever asked for. This review will never be able to show the light of happiness you brought to my father at home before his last breath.
His team of nurses and aides was there daily and on top of every situation. They were even there pronouncing his time of death. When my father passed, he was pain free, comfortable and clean. This was only accomplished by wonderful teamwork.
God bless you all.
Frank R.
Central Illinois and Illinois Valley, IL
Team 178 was incredible. I will forever be grateful for each member.
From my first call to mom's doctor to the first call with VITAS to the end, I was blessed by each person I encountered. The intake rep, social worker Suzan, lead nurse Iclese, the assistants who bathed mom, the men who delivered and picked up equipment, case manager Kereen and Dr. W. were incredible.
But to the four or five nurses that spent 24/7 with Mom, Tracye and me: There are no adequate words that I can say to begin to express my deep gratitude and love for each of you. I consider you all family now.
Mom was given unconditional love, and she praised each one of them. There is a big place in my heart for each member of VITAS Team 178.
May God richly bless each of you. ❤️❤️❤️
Tamara H.
Broward County, FL
The staff was so helpful. They helped us with what to expect as the weeks went by. Avika knew who to call to make final arrangements, and even after my mom's death, she was there for us at the service. We are so grateful that they were there for us. Avika, Angela and Kelly are all angels on earth.
Gretchen Q.
Seminole, Orange and Osceola counties, FL
January 2026
VITAS Healthcare made one of the hardest experiences of my life feel supportive, gentle and deeply human. Nagal and the entire nursing team were truly amazing through every step of my sister's hospice journey. Their compassion, presence and professionalism went far beyond medical care — they held space for me and my family with such kindness and respect.
Because of them, we were able to create a beautiful, peaceful transition for my sister, surrounded by love and dignity. I will forever be grateful for the way they showed up for us during such a vulnerable time.
I am so inspired by the work they do and the care they give that I plan on volunteering with hospice this summer. VITAS Healthcare is a remarkable organization, and their team makes a profound difference in the lives of patients and families.
Andrea G.
Orange County, CA
My sister, Patricia L., is a memory care resident at Grand Villa in Palm Coast, FL. Patti has received excellent from all of the nurses, and I am very grateful.
Yesterday, while visiting Patti, I had the most amazing experience. Your chaplain, Reverend Ean, stopped by to see how Patti was doing. He spent a great deal of time listening to my stories of memories I had with Patti.
He turned out to be just what I needed to feel how special the times are that I am with my sister! He is a special man!
Just want you all to know that VITAS not only helps the patients but also helps the family members! Thank you!
Carol Y.
Volusia, Flagler and Putnam counties, FL
Chaplain Crawford was wonderful and heaven-sent, just like the other members of the VITAS team. They are a soothing balm to a wounded spirit.
Corazon S.
Virginia and Washington, D.C.
My mom was in the care of a great team consisting of HHA Rachelle, Nurse Fanese, Dr. N., Chaplain Milla, social worker Jessica, and others. HHA Rachelle was a bright ray of sunshine. Nurse Fanese and Dr. N. cared for her as if she would live forever. They visited for more than a year and held our hands through her passing.
I'm grateful that my negative perception of hospice was laid to rest by this team. May God bless them richly.
Ayanna D.C.E.
Broward County, FL
Absolutely incredible company! I cannot say enough GREAT things about VITAS and their care team.
Within a few hours of reaching out to them for help with our mom, who was in late-stage dementia and bladder cancer, they sent a team out for assessment.
Within 24 hours, they had brought in all the medical equipment needed and set up regular nurse visits, personal needs care, counseling and pastoral care for the family. We lost our mom in October 2025, but VITAS continues to support and reach out to our family with much love and support.
We will be forever grateful for the professionalism and care that guided and taught us how to care for our mom. VITAS allowed her last months, weeks and days to be spent with love and dignity, surrounded by family and such a caring group of caregivers.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, VITAS!
Gayle F.
Dallas and Fort Worth, TX
Prior to admission, I was very apprehensive about my 98-year-old mother-in-law going to the Holme Avenue inpatient facility.
My fears were groundless. She was there for five days. The care was excellent. I was and am incredibly grateful. It removed so much stress to see a woman I loved and knew for 51 years given the best possible care. I am grateful to the doctor, the priest who prayed with us and gave her the last rites, the nurses and aides. VITAS offered volunteers for grief counseling if desired.
Special shout-out to Dolores, an excellent nurse. Everything about it was set up in a way that provided maximum comfort to my relative and our family.
John G.
Philadelphia, PA
Please note that the star ratings shown reflect all reviews submitted for a given location. We have selected certain experiences to be included on the Share Your Experience page, which may not be representative of all reviews.
