HOSPICE

I went out to admit “Greg”, sixty-three to hospice today. Greg was diagnosed four months ago with lung cancer that has spread to his brain. Greg has had a rapid decline this past week to where he is wobbly on his feet, weak and states, “I just feel crummy”. Greg lives with his wife, “Ilsa”. They have been married thirty-one years.

Greg has two children from a previous marriage while Ilsa has three. Greg states that he has five children all together. This is a very supportive, loving, blended family. Greg has no fears about dying saying, “I have had a wonderful life.” I had met Greg and Ilsa a month ago when a hospice nurse and I went out to educate Greg and Ilsa about the Hospice program. Greg only wanted information at the time. He wasn’t quite ready to come onto hospice.

Greg was now ready to be admitted to hospice. Greg’s daughter, “Heather” was visiting during today’s visit. Before I start to explain the hospice program, I always ask patients and families if they have any questions. Heather asked if hospice rushes the death along. I am never surprised when I hear a question like Heather’s. It is something the hospice staff hears all the time.

Doctors make a referral with an estimation of a life span of six months or less. I tell patients that the doctor is basing his decision on their health history and diagnosis. What doctors cannot put in that equation is the patient’s heart, drive, soul, independence, stubbornness, miracles etc. We all have our own individual journey. Hospice is totally about comfort care and quality of life as defined by the patient.

Once patients and families have an understanding that the patient is in charge in how things proceed, one can see relief in their faces. Patients lose so much independence with a terminal diagnosis. In addition to the loss of their health, they also lose so much control of not being able to do what they enjoy etc. The whole family is grieving and trying to regain some balance.

Hospice is guided by the patient and family in how things will work. We are all living, giving and receiving until we breathe our last breath. No more no less.


HOSPICE

　
She asked me about hospice.
She didn’t quite understand.
“Are you going to help him die?
Do you rush things along?”

Doctors make a referral.
Families don’t know what to expect.
“Does this mean I die in ten days?”
“Will I have pain until the end?”

Valid questions we hear every day.
Fear, uncertainty, feeling overwhelmed.
Not sure where their road is turning.
Trying to regain some control.

Hospice is all about comfort and quality of life.
We tell the patient that they are in charge.
Let us know how you want to do things.
We‘re right next to you, to help you along.

Relief comes with the knowledge of hospice;
knowing that they are never alone.
You see it in their faces,
       you hear it in their words.

Living, loving, embracing life.
Saying what needs to be said;
doing what needs to be done
       until the end.
              Hospice.