Service recognizes Hospice month

Being told that you have a terminal illness and there is nothing more that could be done can lead somebody to hopelessness. Even though an illness may not be curable, the Hospice department at St. Nicholas Hospital is dedicated to giving love, dignity, comfort, and providing the highest level of care to those who are nearing the end of their lives.

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care month, a time to celebrate and honor the people who provide this essential care to the people in our community.

In recognition of National Hospice & Palliative Care month St. Nicholas Hospital Hospice held a Hospice Memorial Service “Seasons of Life.” The event was sponsored by the Friends of St. Nicholas Hospital Foundation. Family members and friends of those cared for by the Hospital Hospice program attended in memory of their loved one.

Hospice recognizes dying as part of the living process and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. Hospice care can be provided at a patient’s home, nursing home, or assisted living facility, as well as at St. Nicholas Hospital.

The Hospice department at St. Nicholas Hospital is composed of nurses, social workers, therapists, home health aides, homemakers, and volunteers. In addition, the Hospice department utilizes specialties within St. Nicholas Hospital such as the Spiritual and Pastoral Support Services department and the Diabetes Center. These entities all focus on maximizing the patient’s independence, quality of life, and making sure the client will able to stay at home with friends and family — the most important things in life.