Michelle Baker
Agrace Hospice
Madison, WI
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My inspiration to become a nurse began during my childhood, as I spent a lot of time in and around hospitals. I saw firsthand the profound impact nurses had—not only through their clinical expertise but also through their compassion and reassurance during difficult times. I was always drawn to the idea of caring for others during such vulnerable moments, and it became clear to me how meaningful it is to support both patients and families through their journey. These experiences shaped my understanding of the essential role nurses play in providing both medical care and emotional support and inspired me to pursue a career where I could offer that same level of care and presence to others.
How did you come to work in hospice specifically?
My path to hospice nursing was deeply personal. After experiencing the loss of loved ones, I realized how important compassionate, presence-centered care is during the end of life. At the same time, I had my own fears around hospitalization and death, shaped by early experiences with my mother’s illness. Rather than avoid those fears, I felt called to face them and use them as a source of empathy. Hospice gave me the opportunity to turn those experiences into something meaningful—to support patients and families through some of life’s most vulnerable and sacred moments.
What has been your favorite or proudest moment as a nurse?
One of my proudest moments as a nurse happened while caring for a hospice patient who was very clear about how they wanted to spend their final days—with comfort, dignity, and moments of joy. They had specific wishes about their care and environment, and I made it a priority to honor those choices. Whether that meant adjusting routines to give them more control, advocating for their needs, or creating space for laughter and connection with loved ones, I saw how powerful it was to truly listen and support someone on their own terms.
There was one afternoon where music played softly, family shared stories around the bedside, and the patient was calm and smiling. It struck me that even in the face of decline, there was still room for peace and joy. Moments like that remind me that hospice isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about preserving dignity, supporting choice, and recognizing the full humanity of every person we care for.
In what ways, if any, is nursing difference from what you expected before you started?
When I first started nursing, I expected it to be primarily about clinical skills and giving medications. What I didn’t fully anticipate was how emotionally complex the work would be, especially in hospice. Nursing is as much about presence, listening, and human connection as it is about technical skills. I’ve also come to deeply value the level of teamwork involved. At Agrace, caring for patients at the end of life is incredibly collaborative with efforts of CNAs, social workers, spiritual and grief counselors, nurse practitioners, physicians, and others coming together with a shared purpose. That sense of mutual support and shared mission has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of the work.
Do you have any advice for someone considering a career in hospice?
I would encourage anyone considering hospice to approach it with an open heart and a willingness to sit with discomfort. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly meaningful work. You’ll need strong clinical skills, but just as important is your ability to listen deeply, be present, and honor each person’s unique journey. Hospice isn’t about fixing, it’s about supporting, comforting, and being a steady presence. Also, lean on your team. Hospice care is collaborative, and you don’t have to carry the weight alone. If you’re drawn to meaningful, purpose-driven work, hospice can be a truly fulfilling path.