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Mother-Son duo strives to make final moments of life peaceful

Posted at 7:16 AM, Jan 25, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-25 08:16:49-05

MOODY, TX — On the American flag-lined streets of Moody, there is a military family that makes sure the final moments of life are peaceful.

"Helping folks find their peace prior to a death makes a lot of difference than finding their peace after," said CEO and Registered Nurse Gwenn Dalton.

Gentle Transitions Hospice is owned and operated by mom Gwenn and son Evan Hessel.

"To wake up every day and do our best to affect people that are in one of the most difficult situations they'll ever face," said Evan.

It's been a calling for Gwenn since 1998.

"What drives us is we get to do hospice care the way we are supposed to. We're not perfect but our heart is always in the right place. Our focus is that our patient's family will bereave the best they can," said Gwenn.

They are contracted with the Department of Veteran's Affairs.

"My father was a 22-year veteran and Evan's dad was a 20-year veteran. We are very connected to veterans," said Gwenn.

Pre-pandemic the team would offer pet therapy and activities like virtual reality in nursing homes as part of their outreach.

"Before the pandemic, you could touch people. We've had to do more tele-visits and stay further away. It's hard on them and it's hard on us," said Gwenn.

But they've grown and will continue to expand services within Central Texas.

"What we're doing is making a difference even through this," said Gwenn.

If you'd like to learn more about Gentle Transitions, check out their website.