Each October, the Catholic Church in the United States observes “Respect Life Month”. In this effort, we are asked to reflect more deeply on the dignity of every human life. From the beginning of life in the womb to its natural end, and at every stage in between. We, as Catholics, are called daily to cherish, defend and protect all life, particularly those who are most vulnerable. During this month-long observance, we are to take a broad view of our responsibility to care for life. And in particular, to look after our elderly in their extremely difficult struggle. To look to our brothers and sisters who may face chronic persistent pain or maybe are confronted with the painful inevitability of death in the very near future.
In the secular healthcare world, National Hospice and Palliative Month is celebrated each November. This calls to attention these two most compassionate forms of modern healthcare. Realizing that all disease and illness cannot be cured and that death is sometimes the inevitable outcome of the course of a disease within a particular person, palliative care and hospice can be offered to the individual in order to provide symptom relief, ease the pain that may be associated with the course of the disease, and, if death is imminent, to improve the quality of life in its’ final stages by employing family involvement.
This care is holistic, collaborative, and delivered by a team of specially trained providers. There are distinctions between palliative care and hospice care that need to be understood by the patient and family. In this month’s “Health Notes” on our website, you can read about just what those differences are.
Overall, we must recognize that life is our gift from God, and God wants all of us to protect and cherish it always. In all its’ stages. Even in the event of terminal illness, our lives continue to reflect God’s love in the world. And that love can never end at the hands of human beings, even ourselves. Palliative and hospice care are the gifts given by others to those in need of support to live out that precious gift of life even when confronted with pain and death.
Human suffering with the distress of physical pain can be well managed through palliative care rendered on its’ own or through hospice services. When such is rendered through hospice care, it allows for the individual to then focus on the relationships of those surrounding them without the constant focus on pain. And it allows loved ones to know that comfort measures are being taken to lessen the distress of pain and allows them to open themselves up to the outpouring of love from the one who is preparing for their eternal life. For it is the love we share in life, and in particular, at this time near death, that accompanies us into the eternal home of God. It is truly a gift from God to share that love in this time without the burden and stress of physical pain. These compassionate forms of care make that gift a reality in our lives.
If you or your loved ones need to learn about palliative care and hospice services, or how to access such care, please feel free to reach out to us at VITALity by calling our Help-line at 1-888-26 VITALity (1-888-268-4825) and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Stay safe and stay well.
God Bless,
Deacon Jerry
