TO BE THERE

We admitted, "Kirsten", aged thirty-eight, to hospice today. Kirsten was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment to no avail. The cancer has now spread to her lungs, liver and bones. Our Medical Director and hospice nurse read the patient's medical records prior to our visit. Pain stood out so strongly as her biggest concern.

Typically when the nurse and I walk in, we may answer questions for a bit, but then will explain the support and philosophy of hospice making sure the patient and family are on the same page. You could see the pain in Kirsten's face. She was lying in bed, but kept moving trying to get comfortable. When asked how she is doing, she said while laughing, "Shitty!"

Kirsten was so honest and true to who she was. I so admire folks who can be honest to whom they truly are. She used swear words in a way that would make me laugh. It was her way of taking the edge of the seriousness of it all.

Kirsten was so spiritual and we instantly connected in an amazing way. She had a great sense of humor and was so real about her illness, her family and friend support. Hospice work is so spiritual for me. I easily will connect to a spiritual being naturally. I was sad when I heard about this referral due to her young age, but the moment I walked in, I strongly felt, "I was meant to be here."

I felt honored to have met Kirsten and her family. She is someone I so admire and respect. I will carry her heart and soul with me. Thank you Kirsten.


TO BE THERE

She was diagnosed with her cancer a few years ago.
She's had chemotherapy and radiation,
but unfortunately her cancer continues to grow
invading multiple organs all over her body.

She has totally accepted her disease.
Her strong spiritual beliefs relieve any fears.
Her biggest complaint is about her uncontrolled pain;
giving it an "8-10" degree; the highest level of all.

She said her pain is constant.
It keeps her awake every night.
It exhausts and drains her stamina.
"I don't ever know what to do."

I spoke about hospice's number one gift to her.
Comfort Care is what we so effectively achieve.
With our Medical Director on the speaker phone and the nurse,
they set up a new medicinal regiment that hopefully would work.

As I was leaving, she reported her pain at a "5".
She hugged me so tightly and softly said,
"You were meant to be here".
I had been feeling exactly the same thing.

I drove halfway back to the office and suddenly realized,
I forgot to have them sign the admission paperwork.
We did not do the admission in our traditional way;
as did patient care first before explaining our program.

Forty minutes later I was back.
She was resting and look so relaxed.
"My pain is now a zero.
I haven't felt this good in years!"

I was able to inform the nurse and Medical Director
about what an amazing job they both had done.
Forgetting the paperwork took me back to their home;
as I so truly was meant, again, to be there.