October 11, is dedicated to raising awareness of the need for quality care end of life care in our country as well as across the globe.

I have devoted most of my career in the home health care setting with a compelling motivation to support patients and family members in the final stage of life. Most people say that they would like to remain at home surrounded by the love of family in their last days, yet sadly less that 25% of people actually die at home.

An unspoken covenant is often made between clinicians and the patients they encounter. It goes something like this; “I know that this is scary and I want you to know that we will be with you every step of the way. I will not abandon you.” Helping to normalize the experience of dying as a natural part of life is a tremendous help.  

This is exactly how Dr. Ed. Mulhern, my mother’s long term family physician, friend and extraordinary human being, was present to support our family.  He not only cared for our mother’s ailing body but more importantly, her spirit. He gently eased her transition from this earthly life while simultaneously encouraging each of us adult children to accept the inevitable.

Dr. Mulhern visited my mom every day (including weekends) for 3 weeks while she was in the hospital. Once she came home he called every day to check on her (and us) and was collaborative in helping to manage her pain and symptoms to ensure her comfort. Dr. Mulhern sees with the eyes of the Soul. His approach is not unique to any one patient because he cares for all his patients in this kind and thoughtful manner. Ed Mulhern truly lives Radical Loving Care.

Although, it seems that we have made great strides in advancing quality end of life care, I am also mindful that much of our medical community is still stuck in an old paradigm of healthcare provision. One that is focused on the treatment of diseases of the body in isolation of the many facets of illness and the impact on body, mind and spirit.

There are many misconceptions of hospice care in our country. Often, the ill person and family think that hospice means “everyone is giving up on me” and there is "nothing more we can do." Sadly, many people access hospice only in the last few days of life. At our ministry 50% of patients admitted to hospice die within seven days or less. They do not have the opportunity to experience the wonderfully holistic approach of hospice care, which is not about dying but living each day to the fullest.

There is also a great deal of misunderstanding of palliative care, which many people equate with hospice care. The following is the definition of palliative care and helps to explain the difference.

A Definition of Palliative Care from the Center to Advance Palliative Care:

Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illnesses. It is focused on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain, and the stress of a serious illness—whatever the diagnosis. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.

Palliative care is provided by a team of doctors, nurses, and other specialists who work together with a patient's other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness and can be provided along with curative treatment (CAPC).

I dedicate this reflection to the many caring physicians, families, caregivers and clinicians who create miracles daily by offering the most precious gift imaginable; their love. 

Liz Sorensen Wessel

Watercolor by ~liz