WHY I DO

Hospice work is so rewarding. It may be one word, one phrase or just a smile from a patient or a family member. Our natural flow is to meet patients and families with open, non-judgmental hearts. I truly believe that is ninety-five percent of what makes hospice work. Folks want validation and caring support.

"Kathy", fifty-eight, was diagnosed with throat cancer two years ago. She had been through chemotherapy and radiation which was no longer working. She was admitted to the hospital six days ago due to her having a struggle with breathing and swallowing. She was discharged home this afternoon for hospice follow up.

I met up with her husband, "Don", about forty-five minutes before Kathy returned home. I was able to explain our program to him while giving him the needed support. Kathy came home in an ambulance. When the paramedics wheeled her into the front room, Kathy asked to be helped to the couch. Her body language and face were a perfect example of where she so wanted to be.

I got down on my knee so I could face Kathy eye to eye. I had my hand on her knee offering gentle support. Her voice was so faint and low, but she had several questions about our program. I knew she was tired and so kept our discussion short. In the end, it was a great example of what an impact a few words can make.

Her gift to me was tremendous. I know we as hospice workers help patients and families, but our rewards return to us a thousand fold. Thank you Kathy. Your kindness touched my heart and my soul.



WHY I DO

As hospice workers,
we often get asked,
"How can you continue to do
all that you do every day?"

The answer comes easy.
It is a natural flow.
It is a calling; it pulls us in.
The rewards so amazingly high.

She's been sick for several years.
Chemotherapy, radiation; the works.
There is no more treatment; no cure.
She wants to remain home to just be.

She speaks in whispers, her voice is so faint.
Her goal is to have some control.
"What do you do? How can you help?
How often do you make a visit?"

I educated her about our hospice team
and how we all come with our hearts.
As I spoke about our chaplain support,
I remembered her husband said she was spiritual
with no religious connections at all.

"I heard you were spiritual."
Softly adding, "I am right on that same page with you."
She looked at me so gently asking,
"When will you be back?"

She told me I had made a difference,
while giving a beautiful gift to me.
This is a perfect example of
Why I do;
          why I so do;
                   this divine work every day.