This Facebook photo from the Evergreen Hospice Volunteers in Kirkland, Washington went a little viral this week, when so many people saw the light and love of this sweet man’s face in the final moments of his life.

The story posted with the image was about Ed who has been suffering from his illness for several years and hadn’t been outside in quite a while.  Ed had been a forest ranger and told the hospice Chaplain about his time among the trees and how much he’d missed it.  His dying wish was simply to be in the forest again.

Chaplain Curt Huber talked with the hospice volunteers and they got in touch with the Snohomish County Fire Department who were more than happy to do what they could to see this last wish come true.

“Ed was picked up and transported in the EMS vehicle; other members of the fire department traveled in a fire truck,” the post reads. “Together, the group took Ed up and down the trails, bringing him the scents of the forest by touching the fragrant growth and bringing their hands close to Ed’s face.  Ed was delighted. So were all the professionals who accompanied him.”

Many of us don’t choose how we go or when we go or where we go, but having someone who understands what those precious little things you appreciate about the world and helps you give them one last hug.  Grace and peace to Ed and his family, and thank you to the amazing nurses, chaplains, and volunteers who work in hospice care across the world.