We’re both pleased with Ed’s decision to go with Hospice, as we now have a whole team of professionals to help us. This week, we’ve had visits from his nurse, his new doctor, the Hospice chaplain, social worker, the oxygen delivery guy, a medicine delivery, and a dietitian will be coming. We also have a 24/7 number to call to speak with a nurse with even tiny questions. They take over all Ed's medical care.
His nurse will come weekly and later, if he needs help with showering, etc., a nurse’s aide can come. There’s also a beautiful new facility a few miles away.
Hospice people don’t sugar coat things and they discuss in different ways what Hospice means. We had thought it was just for the last couple of weeks of one’s life, but we’ve learned it’s far more than that. I see that comfort care includes “coaching on how to LIVE” in the best manner possible for as long as you can, even if you have to adapt your activities.
I can already see a difference in Ed’s spirit and he seems more peaceful, as am I. Hey, how many patients get a home visit from their doctor these days? He told our minister that he might be around another year --- but that’s all in God’s hands.
p.s. Ed’s mind is totally intact so he’s not missing a thing. As the admitting nurse left on Monday she said to me, “I really like Ed. He’s quite a character!” Yep, she’s already figured out “our Ed”, hasn’t she?
No comments:
Post a Comment