Hospice a godsend for my wife and me
When someone called me offering help, I recoiled, thinking "My wife isn't in THAT serious of a condition to need hospice care."
Twenty-four hours later I was curious enough to call back and ask several questions.
What I was told floored me: that day a nurse visited me and easily set in motion a complete program of action.
The next day, a hospital bed was delivered and set up, an oxygen producing machine with 2 full backup tanks, a commode, a hospital table tray and shower chair were put in place.
The following day my dear wife was brought home to be welcomed by me and her lead nurse, Mario.
Comfort care began immediately. Mario was in full contact with a hospice medical doctor assigned to my wife's case.
Medicines were delivered by FedEx from a hospice pharmacy, all needed incontinence materials were brought to our home the same day - all at no cost to us.
Licensed practical nurses, aides, two chaplains and other helpers were constantly in attendance. Comfort animals were offered.
My wife, Marion, died seven weeks after returning home, under the intense loving care of VITAS hospice professionals. Her passing was quiet, painless and dignified.
VITAS offered me long-term help in recovering from my loss of Marion.
God bless hospice care and, in our case, may God extend His blessings to all VITAS personnel.
Bob Graff
Roselle