by admin | Apr 29, 2014 | Being Present, Caregiving, Hospice, Volunteering
As soon as I saw the expression on the faces of the staff at Doug’s House, I knew something was wrong. Our patient, Mr. Smith,* they told me, was not feeling well and would be going to the hospital. He would have to miss the concert that had been arranged especially...
by admin | Dec 2, 2013 | Being Present, Bereavement, Caregiving, Hospice
“On a scale from 1 – 10, rate your general sense of well-being.” Dr. Bob Friedman, the chief medical officer for CTPCA – Central Texas Palliative Care Associates – looked at my brother-in-law expectantly. “Pretty good. I would say it’s an 8,” Stuart responded. He’d...
by admin | Nov 20, 2012 | Caregiving, Hospice
There is a beautiful milkweed bush in the garden outside of room 4 at Hospice Austin’s Christopher House. It’s in full bloom right now, full of red and yellow flowers. Recently, Joyce,* the loved one of Hospice Austin patient Bob* in Room 4, was sitting on the patio...
by admin | Aug 15, 2012 | Caregiving, Hospice
The living journey with Hospice Austin…I visited my mom Debbie today, who is in her fourth month of hospice care; she is 77 years old. I picked up lunch for both of us to have a mini picnic outside her nursing facility before it gets too hot. I arrived a bit early and...
by admin | Jun 4, 2012 | Caregiving, Hospice, Volunteering
Patients and their loved ones often comment that Hospice Austin becomes part of their family. We feel the same way about the families we care for. That’s why it was an honor for us to nominate Bill Snyder and his family for the Austin American-Statesman’s Season for...
by admin | May 8, 2012 | Caregiving, Hospice, Volunteering
There is an old African proverb that says when you pray, move your feet meaning when there is something you hope for, something you believe in, don’t just stand there– make it happen. Your generosity gives feet and hands and heart to the mission of Hospice...