The In-Between by Hadley Vlahos
In a world that often rushes past the quiet moments in pursuit of the next big thing, glorifying the extremes along the way – success or failure, joy or sorrow, and even life or death – we tend to overlook the spaces in between, where some of life’s true magic resides.
The In-Between, written by Hadley Vlahos, is a first-person account of her time working as a Hospice nurse, helping patients navigate that precious space—the space in between this life and the life beyond. The stories that she shares in this book will make you laugh. Certainly, they will make you cry. But they will also bring about a sense of comfort for anyone who is facing or has had to face a time with a loved one in Hospice.
The In-Between is more than just a story – it’s a reminder that life is not always about the destination, but the journey itself. It’s about finding beauty in the everyday, embracing the uncertainty of tomorrow, and learning to dance in the spaces between the notes.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to capture the essence of the human experience in all its messy, glorious complexity. Vlahos doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of life – loss, heartache, disillusionment – but she also celebrates the moments of joy, love, and redemption that make it all worthwhile.
As readers journey through the pages of The In-Between, they’ll find themselves ultimately, coming away with a renewed sense of wonder at the magic that lies hidden in the most unexpected of places.
Behind the Scenes with Hospice Nurses: Angels in Scrubs?
Hospice nurses really are the unsung heroes of the healthcare world. They’re like the quiet guardians in scrubs, bringing comfort, care, and a dose of humor to some of life’s toughest moments.
I was 13 the summer that my mom got sick. Ovarian Cancer they said. Eight short months later, it had spread all over her body. I remember my dad sitting me down and telling me that my mom was going to go on Hospice, and that the nurses would be coming by the next afternoon to meet with us.
Go on Hospice? Hospice seemed like something you should go to, not be on.
I didn’t really understand at the time what Hospice was. When I would tell people that my mom was going on hospice, they would all get the same look in their eyes. It was a look that spoke volumes without saying a word—a mixture of sympathy, sadness and perhaps a hint of helplessness. And no matter how many people I told, they all had the same reaction, I didn’t quite understand the why, but I got the what. Hospice meant something bad.
When the next afternoon rolled around
I was ready for Mean Matilda and Crabby Cathy to arrive, yet as the door creaked open, a breath of fresh air seemed to sweep into the room, accompanied by the gentle sound of footsteps. In walked two figures, their faces illuminated by warm smiles that seemed to brighten the entire space. Their presence alone was like a balm for the soul, instantly putting everyone at ease. With each step, they exuded an aura of kindness and compassion, their eyes sparkling with genuine concern and care. As they introduced themselves, their voices were soft and soothing, each word spoken with a sense of genuine warmth. It was clear from the moment they entered that these were not just nurses, but angels in disguise, sent to bring comfort and solace in a time of need.
While hospice nurses aren’t actual angels descended from the heavens (although they often seem like it). They’re real people with extraordinary compassion and a knack for handling the most delicate situations with grace and empathy.
While the rest of the world is hitting snooze on their alarm clocks, hospice nurses are up and at ’em, ready to tackle whatever the day throws their way. Their mornings might start with a hearty dose of caffeine and a quick pep talk in the mirror. Or it may start with a phone call at 3 am that one of their clients is starting the journey to the great beyond and out the door they will rush—their own needs most likely forgotten.
Once they arrive at work, it’s game time
Hospice nurses wear many hats – they’re part medical expert, part counselor, part comedian (yes, you read that right). They know how to administer medications with precision while simultaneously cracking a joke to lighten the mood. Because sometimes laughter truly is the best medicine, even in the toughest of times.
And they know how to just be there and let the family lean on them when they need it most. It’s a delicate balance, knowing when to offer a comforting hug or simply sit in silence, a reassuring presence in the midst of chaos. They’re there for the families as much as they are for the patients, offering a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear when words fail.
For me, the most remarkable thing about this book was the author’s ability to show the beauty in the midst of such sorrow.
Even though as a child I didn’t really understand what was happening with my mom when she went on Hospice. As an adult, after reading this book, it brings me an immeasurable amount of comfort thinking that maybe she too had someone come to guide her to the other side.
In a world where time is often measured in minutes and hours, this book reminds us that some of life’s most profound moments can’t be rushed – they unfold in their own time, in the gentle rhythm of a heartbeat and the whispered words of farewell.
If you still need to pick up your copy of this book, you can get it here on Amazon. Or get it for free when you sign up for a free trial from Audible.
Until next time, stay brash, stay bookish, stay true to you and maybe hug your family just a little bit tighter!
