Kindred Hospice

Priscilla Smiles

Unfortunately, most of the 5 star entries tend to be terminal. Contrary to popular belief, all who have need of this facility's services are not necessarily going to expire. Sometimes they just have a need for the skills that only such a specialized unit can supply. Oftimes the services are not especially for the affected; like funerals aren't for the deceased. Originally the word "hospice" was applied to places where a person or a several persons stayed to rest, maybe a nosh before continuing on their journey. Much akin to life. The public's excepted meaning is fairly recent. Now make no mistake, hospices do much of the palliative care of an imminent death; usually 6 mos or less. Their's is a occupation for those who care, have empathy, just want to help. Being that "those who ease the way" are in many instances volunteers. Having experienced that situation themselves for a loved one, feel compelled to do the same Some are kind folk who have the desire to help. Some are degreed even MD's. The commenter was an LPN having lost 2 younger siblings and was deeply touched by the actions of the Hospice Care Team. They were made comfortable. It was very much appreciated by the entire family who were sort of too close to the flames you could say. If it were this commenter's fate to linger a wee bit before passing into that which is , there wouldn't be an issue as long as one of the choices was being made comfortably numb. Its not like addiction would be a potential problem would it? A few terms: Rose Cottage = morgue,funeral home or Hospice services itself. White Chapel= an expedited disposition for various reasons ie. religious. In State= viewing by family only, friends. Direct Disposition = from the place of expiration to the place of final physicality. Thanotologist = a person trained in notifying the loved ones of approaching death to arranging grief counseling, medications or surgery to adjunct quality of life, after care. There are even societies whose purpose are these allied services. Its a privilege serving in this field that is as old as mankind itself. Note: many in this field would prefer to not linger. Pass on as quickly as biology permits so as to not to stress those involved. This is also an option.