Tag Archives: care

Palace of Care – Requested Letter

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Photo by Álvaro Serrano on Unsplash

This was a first for me in my 23 year medical career. My patient’s family requested we write a letter to be read out at the funeral.

To our dear patient and their lovely family,

Thank you for allowing us the privilege of looking after you.

We know to start with you were scared of hospice and were not keen to be under our care.

You changed your mind once you met us. Our whole team enjoyed getting to know you and your caring family.

We are glad we could help you feel more comfortable, as we could see you had suffered a lot, as had your family who witnessed your suffering.

Your family had looked after you so well at home and that’s why you were able to make it to your 80th birthday. It was a testament to the loving care they provided to you.

Thank you for allowing us to look after you in your final days.

You were so unwell but we were so glad to share smiles and laughter with you and your family during your time in our inpatient unit.

Your friends and family will miss talking with you and hearing you sing, but everyone is glad you do not have to suffer any longer.

It was our pleasure to look after you and your family. That’s why hospice is here, to look after people just like you and me in the community.

We wish you and your family a fond farewell.

Kind regards,

Dr James Jap on behalf of the Hospice Team

Palace of Care/I think therefore I am? – #getjnrbak – Time is of the essence

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Since the last update a lot has happened.

The local branch of shipping company Maersk reached out to Palliverse after reading the NZ Herald article from Sunday. Their can do attitude was much appreciated by us all. Thank you very much.

Thanks also to everyone who has made suggestions, offered advice and wished us well for this mission. It is heartening that people are taking time out of their busy lives to try to help their fellow man. Be proud of yourselves.

Poppa has become extremely fatigued over the past three days which is a big concern to the hospice team and the family. There’s a possibility that time may be shortening, as Poppa’s condition continues to deteriorate.

There has been some good news – Junior has been improving everyday and has been in touch with his specialist again. His risk of further eye injury is now estimated to be low, and because of the uncertain situation that Poppa is in the decision has been made for Junior and other family members to board the earliest flight to Auckland tomorrow.

Poppa has been informed of the travel plans and is looking forward to seeing Junior tomorrow. Poppa is trying his best to hold on.

Fingers and everything else remain crossed. Prayers are being said by many people on both sides of the Tasman.

Good luck Poppa and Junior – I sincerely hope that you can have your reunion.