A family grieving the loss of their mother recently delivered a handwritten letter to physicians and staff at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital’s hospice unit, expressing profound gratitude for the care she received in her final days. The letter, shared by the hospital on Tuesday, highlights the dedication of the medical team in ensuring both the patient’s comfort and dignity during her finish-of-life journey.
The family wrote that their mother “received truly warm and dignified care” at the hospice ward, and credited the doctors’ “careful judgment and devoted care” with alleviating her physical suffering. They further stated that this allowed her to pass away peacefully, and provided the family with the space to prepare for their loss with a sense of trust and solace. The letter specifically praised the tireless efforts of the nursing staff, describing their care as extending beyond medical attention to encompass “love and patience.”
“The nurses’ hands, attending to her day and night, and not missing even the smallest discomfort, were more than just care – they were love and patience itself,” the family wrote, adding that this kindness offered deep comfort not only to their mother but to the entire family.
The gesture of gratitude comes as Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital is recognized for its pioneering role in hospice and palliative care in South Korea. The hospital was the first in the country to introduce a formal hospice program, and continues to refine its patient-centered model of care.
Dr. Kim Cheol-min, head of the hospital’s palliative medicine department, described the family’s letter as a “great comfort” to the medical staff and a reaffirmation of their mission. “The family’s sincere letter is a great comfort to the medical staff and a gift that reaffirms our mission,” he said, adding that the hospital remains committed to ensuring that patients and their families can experience peace and dignity in their final moments.
Similar expressions of gratitude have been documented at other institutions offering hospice care. A report from Dong-A Ilbo in November 2025 detailed a patient’s daughter expressing thanks to staff at Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital for providing a special opportunity to view the Seoul World Fireworks Festival during her mother’s stay. The daughter’s letter highlighted the hospital’s efforts to create meaningful experiences for patients even in the face of terminal illness.
The hospital has not announced any changes to its hospice program following the receipt of the letter, but continues to provide specialized care for patients facing life-limiting illnesses.
