When a patient comes onto hospice, they; along with their loved ones; have been grieving when the illness first started and not when we walk into the door. A large part of the Social Worker’s role is grief counseling and support. Many folks feel that there are certain rules they must follow when they grieve. I will validate their emotions telling them that whatever they are feeling is called normal.
There are such a large variety of emotions that arise when one is grieving. I share that feel what they need to feel while following activities that help them cope. Many folks talk with family and friends, while other will exercise or journal.
We give a grieving person permission to feel what they need to feel while guiding them to their support network or activity. I talk with so many amazing folks. For many, their words could easily be set to music.
CONDOLENCE CALLS
We grieve more than just death.
We deeply ache over other losses as well.
Such as; our best friend moves away;
or we didn’t get the job we wanted.
After each death in hospice,
a Social Worker will call the family.
Wonderfully, the majority are doing well,
and so gratefully appreciate the call.
I did two back-to-back condolence calls today.
When I asked how they were coping,
both deeply touched me
with their amazing words.
His dad died last night at 101 years of age.
When I asked how he was doing, he lovingly said,
“We are all doing great. He had a good, long life.
He was ready to let go; as yesterday he said,
Don’t worry. Tell me to go home”.
Her father was in his nineties.
When I asked how she is managing, she said,
“I am doing okay. I am relieved.
He is no longer suffering.”
“It’s been a long run.
He was tired and ready to go.
It was a dual suffering,
but now, he is flying high.”
Bereavement will follow up for 13 months;
while offering counseling, support groups and more.
I know they too, will hear deep emotions and grief
accompanied by beautiful, heartfelt words.
No comments:
Post a Comment