COUNTDOWN IS ON TO HOPE & DREAM 10 – SUNDAY APRIL 7 ‘The greatest help of all during those dark days was Hospice Homecare’

Christmas 2009, we heard those words no family want to hear – ‘He will not make it’. My poor Dad, Patrick Kehoe, who bravely fought emphysema and prostate cancer for many years would not recover this time.

The doctor stood in our kitchen on Christmas Eve and asked us did we want to send Dad to hospital, that some families find it hard to nurse a loved one at home in their final days, it can be tough.

My mother who bravely nursed Dad at home throughout his years of illness said no, he will be at home with us his family. This decision was all the more frightening given that in 2009 we had the big snow and we lived down a steep driveway, which meant cars had to be left at the top and people walk the slippery surface, and walk they did.

Family and friends rallied round and brought Christmas dinner and cooked meals every day. This support from family and friends meant that we as a family could be with Dad round the clock.

But the greatest help of all during those dark days was Hospice Homecare.

In hospital you have the backup and support of nurses to help your loved one in their final days. At home, Hospice Homecare provides this support. Without it, to be honest, we would not have been able to have Dad spend his last days at home. Joan Fogarty came and was able to make Dad comfortable. She knew what to do, she gave us confidence and support so we could stay strong

Palliative Care is a frightening term, but when your loved one is suffering, you thank God for the work Hospice Homecare do to make your loved one comfortable.

Dad passed away at 10.50 am on New Year’s Day 2010. Joan Fogarty from Hospice Homecare was not due to call to us that day but just before 10am, she braved the snow and walked down to us to check on Dad.

We knew at this stage that it was close. At home, this is frightening – what do you do? What should we be doing? These thoughts race through your head along with the pain and heartache. Joan Fogarty was an angel that morning. She stayed with us, she supported us and ensured Dad had a peaceful passing. Hospice Homecare and those that do their work are remarkable.

‘He will not make it’ – no words any family want to hear, but with the help and support of Hospice Homecare your loved one can spend their final days and hours with you at home.