Music, memories and a celebration of life
In the cardiothoracic intensive care unit (CTICU) at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, care often goes beyond routine responsibilities, especially in life’s most difficult moments. When one patient’s condition shifted toward end-of-life care, ICU nurse Ellie Dion set out to ensure their final days were filled with dignity, connection and meaning.
Dion spent most of her time caring for the patient on night shifts, growing closer with each interaction. She quickly learned the patient was passionate about music, which became a meaningful point of connection. The patient often shared favorite songs and even dedicated them to CTICU staff members, choosing tracks that reflected their personalities.
“The patient was enthusiastic about music, and honestly, had great taste,” Dion said.
As the patient neared the transition to comfort care, Dion focused on creating moments that felt personal and joyful.
Together, they planned a game show–themed celebration, where family and friends gathered in the room to celebrate the patient’s life through games like Jeopardy. Before the event, Dion spent more than three hours washing the patient’s hair and braiding it into space buns — a style the patient hadn’t tried before but quickly came to love.
“The party brought in so many friends and family members. It was incredible to see the patient being so celebrated,” Dion said.
As a music lover herself, Dion also brought her personal guitar to play for the patient and their family on the final day.
“The day before, I went home after my shift and started learning a song the patient loved,” Dion said. “It meant so much to them, and I played other songs like “Slipping Through My Fingers” by ABBA. It was emotional, but the energy in the room was powerful.”
Dion shared that experiences like this shape how she approaches every patient interaction.
“Our unit is faced with many patients in their last moments of life,” she said. “It’s an honor to take care of them and help them feel like a person, a human, rather than just a patient.”
She added that empathy and respect guide her care.
“If I were in their shoes, I would want to be treated with the same care and respect that every single nurse on my unit provides. It’s important to make our patients feel special.”
Radiology Supervisor Katie Moses and CTICU nurse team members Camille Kent and Kelsey Boyette expressed appreciation for Dion’s efforts in a recent Celebrating You nomination.
“On behalf of the night shift crew, we want to say thank you and recognize you, Ellie, for going above and beyond for your patient and their entire family. Not only did you provide incredible medical care, but you also demonstrated such empathy and compassion. It doesn’t go unnoticed, and your patients are so lucky to have you!”