I'm writing to review the 6-day stay and experience that I recently had at Ryan House while my grandmother passed the last days of her life. Even though I am a Valley resident, this facility in downtown Phoenix was pretty far from my home, so I elected to stay in the room with my grandmother including sleeping there several nights.
Having had this kind of 'up close and personal' view of several days, several shifts, and several crews, I can say without any hesitation that TO A PERSON the staff at this facility is absolutely flawless. The degree of professionalism, skill, and compassion I experienced was without compare. My grandmother and I were both treated with care, respect, and dignity. I was grateful and deeply moved to witness my grandmother, who was not really conscious for any part of her stay, being treated as a PERSON and not just as a patient. Even though she couldn't communicate, the staff went out of their way to really pay attention to her, using their skill and expertise to anticipate needs, interpret non-verbal cues, and facilitate the least amount of suffering possible as my grandmother made her transition from earthly life. The doctor and staff listened to me and allowed me to continue to be an advocate for my grandmother until the very end. They really cared about what my grandmother's preferences would have been even though she couldn't express them herself. I truly felt like they cared about creating the best environment and conditions possible for this process. Although I was present with my grandmother as much as possible, when I did choose to leave in order to attend to personal needs it was with absolutely zero apprehension or anxiety for her treatment or welfare. I had every confidence that my grandmother would be as well taken care of in my absence as if I was there, based not only on my direct experience but also from watching the conduct of the staff toward other patients who did not have friends or family present.
As far as the facility itself is concerned, it was immaculately clean and as comfortable as a place like this can be. There is a large patio for the use of patients (if able) and family members that is furnished and lovely. There is also a large seating area. My grandmother's room had both a recliner and a side bed which were comfortable to sleep on and I was provided with a pillow and blanket. There was also a refrigerator in the room and I had access to a microwave and filtered water. There are several great restaurants in walking distance to the facility. Even though it is Central Phoenix, I felt perfectly safe to walk during the day and mostly safe walking in the early evening. I utilized the gated access parking garage to park my car and this also felt safe and secure.
I am more grateful than I can express to the men and women who cared for my grandmother and I at Ryan House. I will also mention here that my overall experience with Hospice of the Valley from beginning to end was absolutely exemplary in professionalism, compassion, and competence. I would never use another hospice organization in the area besides Hospice of the Valley.
