Abstract
Inadvertently, this project resulted in the creation of a model for completing a successful end-of-life journey. Concept Mapping(TM) was used to arrange the observations of 12 hospice workers into 7 clusters representing the responses of patients and families to the dying process. The 7 clusters became a model of the final journey of life. Distressing physical symptoms must be managed before the patient can attend to resolving emotional, mental, spiritual, and relational life issues. As issues are resolved, transcendence may be manifest. Using this model of the final journey to assess and support as patients, families, and hospice workers share the final journey may facilitate a more peaceful and meaningful death.