Special to The Voice
For Jeanne and her family, it is the people and the services offered that make Chatham-Kent Hospice a treasure for Chatham-Kent.
Jeanne died at Chatham-Kent Hospice after living there for 10 days. The 84-year-old retired teacher had lived with cancer for five years but with the support of CCAC (Community Care Access Centre), was able to stay at home and was very comfortable.
The last few months had been the most challenging but she managed with the additional help of her family. The CCAC nurses suggested she consider moving to the hospice for her final days and both Jeanne and her family were so glad they did.
“At first my sister and I felt awful taking our mom from her home but after a couple of days, we knew we had done the right thing and Mom agreed with us” said Nicole, one of Jeanne’s daughters.
“The sweet, compassionate way they treated Mom and us was beyond our expectations. From the very welcoming greeting when we arrived, the spa bath Mom enjoyed so much, to the care the nurses provided to our family members, it was amazing. We could now be daughters instead of caregivers.”
Jeanne’s family were grateful that the hospice staff knew when Jeanne’s time was coming because it gave them the opportunity to gather their family and say their last goodbyes.
“Don’t be afraid to make the move to hospice. It’s comfortable, feels safe, medicine is available quickly and the staff are extremely kind.” said Jeanne.
Since opening its doors one month ago, Chatham-Kent Hospice has served 19 families. The length of stay at hospice has ranged from 24 hours to 19 days.
To read more of Jeanne’s story, visit www.chathamkenthospice.com.
Nicole, I am so glad for your family and especially your mom. The Hospice is a remarkable organization whose staff go above and beyond.
My Mom had a tour…She says it's beautiful.
Thank you for taking such good care of my Aunt, Jeanne Caron. It meant the world to her family.