Hospice nurse and author Pepper Cappuccio is talking with us about his book “Warm Water: The Last Act of Compassion”, and how he creates meaning for patients and their families in their last moments.  Carl “Pepper” Cappuccio has been a nurse for over 15 years, and a hospice nurse for 10 years.  According to his website peppercappuccio.com, “he became a registered nurse more than 15 years ago, however, it was not until he experienced the death of his own mother that he realized his true calling. Hospice nursing is what brings him joy and satisfaction.”  Due to his personal experience with his mom, Pepper is acutely aware of the challenges faced by the caregivers as they face the loss of a loved one. The author is instantly able to connect the similarities of each patient and family as it relates to his own life‘s experiences.  Creating a meaningful ritual of bathing patient’s bodies with warm water during post mortem care has enabled Pepper to honor the humanity of the people for whom he provides nursing care.  Just the simple act of a warm bath demonstrates compassion and a respect for the physical body.  Pepper’s book is a collection of his stories and experiences with the patients in his case, and the rituals he created at the time of their deaths.  “Warm Water” is a selection of stories to which all caregivers and hospice professionals can relate.  

Read more about Pepper’s story at peppercappuccio.com. Buy “Warm Water: The Last Act of Compassion” by clicking here or here.  Looking for a speaker for your event or conference?  Send an email to helen@theheartofhospice.com or to jerry@theheartofhospice.com.  We’d love to partner with you! Find more podcast episodes from The Heart of Hospice here: https://theheartofhospice.libsyn.com/ Find more information about hospice philosophy, end of life care, and self care for both personal and professional caregivers here.  Send your questions and comments to host@theheartofhospice.com.  We’d love to hear from you!