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In reply to the discussion: A Fitting Final Gift From Jimmy Carter [View all]WinstonSmith4740
(3,144 posts)My husband passed in 2010 after fighting cancer for 2 years. When the word "hospice" entered the conversation, I pretty much had the same reaction. (His cancer was not beatable...Lynch Syndrome.) I was adament that he was going to be "...at home, where he belongs". What I didn't understand, and what the nurse gently explained to me, was that hospice can come to you. I don't know how those folks do it...they are literally angels on earth. He really didn't need a lot of care, I was pretty much able to take care of his needs. But once he entered hospice care, his pain killers and any other drug was totally covered by Medicare. Hospice didn't cost us a cent. I was fortunate enough to work for a school district that honored Family Medical Leave, so I was able to pull my salary while I stayed home with him for his last month. So he was at home in my arms when his time came. Where he belonged.
I'm glad your patient is fighting. Sometimes miracles happen, but I know the fear and dread. But hospice care is in a league of their own. Even after Mike passed, they kept in touch with me for at least 6 months...checked in to see how I was doing, let me know about meetings and gatherings, especially at the holiday season. I had a very good support system with my family and friends, but it was good to know that there was someone I could call at 2 in the morning if I needed to. Knowing the person you love the most in the world will not be there to grow old with you is awful. But somehow, those folks made the transition a little easier.
I wish your patients the best.