In a fast-paced world, life’s poignant moments, especially regarding the end of a loved one’s journey, require our full attention. As a hospice nurse, I’s often present during these significant moments and keenly feel the need for paid family and medical leave.

Hospice care goes beyond medical support, providing emotional comfort and dignity to patients and their families during life’s toughest moments. It turns the typically depressing subject of death into a sacred transition, with the aim of making the process as peaceful and meaningful as possible.

The year 2020 introduced unique challenges that emphasized the critical demand for paid family and medical leave. The coronavirus pandemic severely impacted our patients and their families. I witnessed heartbreaking moments when I had to help patients communicate with their distant families via video calls while cloaked in full protective gear.

The life-changing experiences also highlighted the persisting challenge of financial burden faced by many families. Accepting the victory of death over a loved one is difficult enough, but it becomes even more challenging when coupled with figuring out strategies to manage finances. Families are forced to make tough decisions about whether they can afford to take time off work or hire outside help.

Paid family and medical leave provides a solution to these issues. It guarantees job security for caregivers and allows them to attend to their loved ones without worrying about losing their livelihood. It also enables them to care for their families without jeopardizing their children’s well-being. Ultimately, it provides comfort to patients knowing their loved ones can attend to them without the additional stress of financial challenges.

Therefore, New Mexico cannot afford to wait. I urge lawmakers to prioritize the passage of Paid Family and Medical Leave Act.

Alexandra Pedersen-Green is a hospice nurse living in Rio Rancho.