A special and moving request recently came to local police officer Niels from Helmond. Artur, a man he has known for years from the city center, asked if he wanted to see him one more time. Artur is staying in a hospice, is terminally ill and knew it would be a farewell. “I will take this with me forever,” says local police officer Niels.
It was not a normal appointment for the police officer. “Artur let me know that he doesn’t have long to live and would like to say goodbye. Then you enter such a hospice with lead in your shoes.”
What followed was a warm and open conversation. Artur wanted to thank Niels for the conversations they have had over the years and what Niels has meant to him as a local police officer. “It’s a small effort for me, but it’s nice to get his appreciation in this way, goosebumps.”
Self-designed socks
As a lasting memory, Artur had made something special: a pair of socks, designed by himself. “I find it unbelievable that he even took the trouble to do that,” says the police officer. “A very beautiful and moving gesture.”
Strict clothing rules apply within the police: only black socks may be worn under the uniform. Yet Niels decided to make an exception for Artur. “I promised him that I would wear them and I immediately put my words into action.”
Special work
The police officer shares the moment, with permission from Artur and the hospice, on social media. “Artur, thank you for the conversations, your invitation and the beautiful socks,” he writes. “I will continue to wear them with pride.”
For Niels, the visit once again shows why his work is so special. “Moments like this show how important real contact is.”