THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, May 22, 1996 TAG: 9605220014
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 30 lines
When tragedy strikes and a loved one's life is in peril, it is wonderful to know that an organization is ready to step in and help. I found this out when faced with my husband's sudden diagnosis of incurable cancer. At such a time our family had to deal with a myriad of decisions (as does every family), not the least of which is ``How can we give him the best care and most comfort for the remaining time he has?''
Sentara Home Care and Hospice Service took us under its wing and made this terrible time as easy as it possibly could. Not only did my husband receive regular visits from compassionate practical nurses, but also a registered nurse checked in on him several times a week and was in contact with his oncologist. In this way she was able to keep him comfortable by regulating the dosage of his pain medication. She made herself available at all times, even in the middle of the night, with just a phone call from us.
As too many people discover for themselves, an incurable disease is difficult for patient and family alike, and the concerned volunteers who helped us through this deserve more than a mere expression of gratitude.
I learned so much about this organization in the short time we required its services, and I give the highest recommendation to anyone in need of its charge. In addition to caring for the patient, they are concerned with the mental health and adjustment to the trauma of the entire family.
SALLY M. HYMAN
Virginia Beach, April 26, 1996 by CNB