HE'S NOT READY

As part of our hospice support, we meet with patients and their families to educate them about our hospice program and supports. Often, folks are not yet ready for hospice as have fears we hurry death along or we take charge over how things are managed.

We met up with “Sam”, who wanted to hear about our program because of his elderly mother who has been declining for such a long time. She is now totally dependent upon all of her needs. She is eating very little as is awake only a few hours each day.

Sam liked what we said about our program, but wanted to ask his mother what she thought about hospice support. He feared she would just give up on life as wasn’t ready to hear about hospice.

Several hours later, Sam gave me a call to schedule a hospice admission. He asked his mother what she thought about hospice being involved. He was so surprised and relieved by her response. I told him that he gave her the opportunity to talk about her true feelings. I believe that she was also likely relieved by his question.

In the end, I feel that most of us do best with the truth. It is typically a healthy practice as it allows us to process our own emotions and thoughts in a safe environment.


HE'S NOT READY

She's been bedridden for over two years.
She is weak and needs so much help.
She sleeps about twenty-two hours each day.
Her decline is slow, but continuing.

Her son wants to do what's right for her,
but doesn't know where to begin.
He wanted to know about hospice support,
but he's not ready to hear this may be her end.

We educated him about our hospice program.
He liked what we had said,
but he doesn't know how to tell her.
He fears she might give up.

He went out to talk with her.
He didn't know what to say,
but she awoke when he mentioned hospice.
"Would you like us to bring them in?"

He was amazed by what his mother said
as feared she would be upset.
Instead it was "Such a magical moment",
as felt instant relief by her response.

He didn’t believe she was prepared,
but she easily told him that she was,
by answering his question
in a few simple words.

          “Yes.
                  I am ready.”