We have supported Hospice for a number of years.  We were happy to contribute a little money and sail in the regatta  each year.  Intellectually, we "got" what Hospice was about...or so we thought.

In November of 2013, my mother-in-law, Nancy Pearson, began a rather rapid downhill slide.  At 84, she wasn't really sick, she was just wearing out.  Nancy lived with us and we tried to provide the best care that we could.

Thanksgiving had been a good holiday for all of us, but almost immediately afterward, Nancy's energy level seemed to plummet.  She began eating less, and with less food had less energy.  We hurriedly got her in to see her physician, who did all the right tests and assured us there was no cancer and no trauma from an unseen fall.

All through December we were at a loss as to what to do.  We tried everything to get her to eat and drink more.  We were wearing ourselves out trying to give her the care she needed.  In early January she fell and couldn't get up.  We couldn't get her up and called EMS for help.  The EMS staff suggested that we ask Nancy’s doctor to call Hospice for help.

Nancy's doctor approved Hospice care, and immediately everyone's world took a turn for the better.  Both Nancy and her caregivers (us) got the support we all needed.  Hospice came in with support and information that helped us understand what was going on, how to care for her--and for ourselves.  The information alone was invaluable, and the support from the Hospice professionals and volunteers was beyond belief.

Nancy lived her last month in her home, surrounded by family and those who loved her.  She passed peacefully, and though we still mourn the loss, we are so grateful that Hospice enabled us to care for her in her home in her final days.

Capn Dar will be performing on Friday, May 30 at the LNYC Clubhouse.