Camilla Jessen
A hospice nurse has shared a pattern she’s seen time and again.
For most, death is something distant and unfamiliar.
But for those who work in end-of-life care, like Katie Duncan, it’s part of everyday life — and often, it’s filled with quiet, almost mystical moments that defy explanation.
Katie, a nurse practitioner and “death care coach” from Maryland, recently shared one of the most moving things she’s seen again and again in her work with the dying: a simple gesture made by many patients just before they pass.
In a viral TikTok video, Katie described how people, often near their final moments, will begin reaching upward, as if trying to grab something—or someone—just out of sight.
In my experience, it’s very common,” she said. “You’ll literally see someone reach up, like they’re trying to hold someone’s hand or touch something in the air.
Visions and Unseen Comfort
Katie explains that this gesture is sometimes accompanied by what are known as “end-of-life visions.”
Patients may speak of seeing loved ones who have passed, pets, or even a bright light. Others may say nothing at all, but their upward-reaching movements suggest they are responding to something real and meaningful—at least to them.
People often say they’re seeing someone, a loved one, a pet, even an angel or a bright light,” she explained. “Other times, they don’t speak at all, but still reach up, as if sensing a presence.
Though there is no scientific explanation for these visions or gestures, many in palliative care believe they’re part of the natural transition toward death, and Katie notes that patients almost always appear to be at peace during these moments.
“If anything, they seem comforted,” she said. “These visions, whatever their origin, often bring people a deep sense of calm.”
A Moment of Wonder
Katie describes witnessing this phenomenon as both humbling and awe-inspiring.
It’s one of the more mysterious aspects of death that we’re lucky enough to witness as caregivers. It’s humbling.
Her video resonated deeply with viewers online, many of whom shared personal stories of witnessing similar moments with their loved ones.
“My dad reached up with both arms,” one commenter shared. “Before that, he hadn’t been able to lift them at all.”
“It’s the in-between,” another wrote. “What a privilege to witness.”
“It’s heaven they’re reaching for,” said one. “I didn’t want to disturb him, it felt sacred.”
For those who work closely with the dying, these experiences are not uncommon.