Acknowledgments

I would like to first acknowledge my husband, Bill, and my parents, who instilled in me a love of learning, reading, and the written word.

This fourth edition had a rigorous review by expert hospice and palliative care professionals. They are listed formally in this book in the “Reviewers” section. I profusely thank these professional colleagues for their time, efforts, and insights into this book. From being an editor, I have learned that a great review improves content, clarity, and context. You are a special group, and I am privileged to know you. Again, thanks for all your unique and ongoing contributions to hospice and palliative care.

I have several acknowledgments for Sigma, the publisher of this fourth edition. Special thanks first go to Emily Hatch, Acquiring Book Editor, for all of her thoughtful, kind input and communications. Special thanks also to Carla Hall, Managing Editor at Sigma, as well as Sales Specialist Dan Buker. Dan, you are to be heartily commended for managing so many important details related to readers and their experience.

Jennifer Kennedy, as always, I appreciate working with you across decades and value your humor, wit, and wisdom. We have seen some changes!

Finally, to my brain trust of longtime writing or practice colleagues, including Joyce Berk, Mary Deeley, Anita Finkelman, Lynda S. Hilliard, Elizabeth Madigan, Cherie Mee, Mary Narayan, Arlene O’Brien, Nathalie Rennell, Cindy Saver, Alice Schroeder, Mary St. Pierre, Brit Stamey, Elizabeth Tanner, Nancy Valentine, Marilyn Warling, and many others. Thank you!