Most of us remember someone who helped us during difficult times - a grandparent, a special teacher, even a stranger who became a friend. Recollections of these caring people who supported us in the midst of crisis are important sources of strength and calm throughout our lives.
Yet, when recalling end-of-life experiences of those we love, many of us have different recollections. These memories may include the hurt on the face of a loved one in pain; the sorrow on the face of a family member who did not get the opportunity to say goodbye to a dying relative; the stress on the faces of those making difficult decisions about end-of-life choices without guidance. We can carry these difficult memories with us for a lifetime. However, there are people working in our community who can bring hope, dignity and love when they are needed most.
November is National Hospice/Palliative Care Month, a time to celebrate those who provide hospice and palliative care to those in our community and help raise awareness of quality care at the end of life. We are fortunate to have the experienced staff and trained volunteers of St. Joseph's Hospice offering care and support during one of life's most challenging journeys.
St. Joseph's Hospice is committed to providing the residents of our community with information on hospice, as well as advance care planning. Our mission is to provide education on what hospice is, what services are provided, when hospice is appropriate, and other vital end-of-life healthcare issues that all consumers should be familiar with. Communicating your wishes to family and loved ones - early and often - is an important aspect of advance care planning.
Hospice is not a place, but a philosophy of care. The quality care and support that St. Joseph's Hospice offers is more than medicine. We provide hope, dignity and love.
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Chris Broeker, PHN
Hospice Manager
St. Joseph's Hospice
Park Rapids
