Hospice Myths

Hospice is one of the most misunderstood health care specialties around.  I want to address a few of the most common myths we here over and over.

Myth: Hospice is just for the final days.

Reality:Patients can be on hospice for a few days, a few weeks, a few months and for some even years.  The sooner a patient is referred to hospice and can begin to receive the compassionate care focused around improving their quality of life, the better.  Too often, we hear, “I wish we would have called sooner.”  This is a heartbreaking statement to hear.  It is never too early to begin the conversation and know what your options and loved ones wishes are so there aren’t delays when the time comes for hospice services.

Myth: Hospice is only for the elderly.

Reality:There are no age requirements to receive hospice care.  We have had patients as young as 2 months all the way up to 110. 

Myth:  Hospice is only for cancer patients.

Reality:  In 2011, over 60% of our patients were on hospice because of diseases not associated with cancer.  Hospice is for any diagnosis that meets the criteria of being a life-limiting terminal illness.  This myth dates back to when hospice began in America and at that time, was primarily a service for cancer patients.  This just simply is not true today. 

Myth: Hospice is giving up.

Reality:  This just might be one of the hardest myths to address because this involves a person’s mindset.  Hospice is the farthest thing from giving up.  While yes, it is true that you are choosing to no longer seek curative treatment, it is not true that you, your family or your doctor are giving up on you.  Hospice is about giving the gift of life until the last second.  It is about providing comfort and quality time to be with your loved ones.

For more information, visit Circle of Life Hospice online at www.nwacircleoflife.org or call me at 479-750-6632.

In Celebration of Valentine's Day

Why shouldn’t everyday be Valentine’s Day?   In my book – it is!  Love well everyday of your life – love the ones you’re with as the song goes…..every second, minute, hour, day is a gift you share with strangers, friends and family! Live it to the fullest.

Our Circle of Life TEAM “shares the love”  24/7 --- by providing compassionate care and support for our patients and their families. 

Happy Valentine's Day friends.

My First Hospice Experience

"Mary, it's a choice of prolonging your mother's life or prolonging her death." Words that will always ring in my ears.  With encouragement from my Mom's physician -- as a family - two brothers, a sister and my Mom our family chose Circle of Life Hospice care.    A choice that allowed my family to "walk alongside Mom" all the way to heaven. Circle of Life Hospice allowed her to die at home, without suffering, in peace and surrounded by her family.  

It was February, 2004 at the age of 45 that I had my first experience with hospice care and at that time I knew it wouldn't be my last.  Though I never imagined that I  would be given the privilege to provide the leadership to Circle of Life Hospice and be apart of that very team that helped "walk my Mom to heaven". 

I remember the  day, March 13, 2004, that my Mom died so very clearly and for me it will always be one of my greatest reminders as to why I chose this calling as my "life's work" and dedicate myself each day to helping people of NWA get the care and support that is the best that humankind can offer! 

I am blessed and I AM HOSPICE.