The Hospice . . .

After two very painful days and nights, Stephen agreed that outside help is needed and finally decided that the local Hospice is the answer at this stage of his illness - now that all treatment has ceased - and not the hospital with admittance to an understaffed geriatric ward - the main point of a hospice being pain relief and palliative care - with emphasis on 'care.'

After talking to the District Nurse, and making a few phone calls, it was arranged for Stephen and myself to see the Professor in charge of the hospice early this morning.

Professor B took detailed notes, gave Stephen a physical examination - asked oncologist at hospital for copies of Stephen's medical records, including results of latest CT / MRI scans, and arranged to see him again in 2 weeks. He doubled the drugs - arranged for a Macmillan nurse to call in 3 days to see if the increased drugs have deadened the pain as opposed to merely making him drowsy - and is considering a spinal block - done under anaesthetic - if the new drug regime does not work.

We both felt a great sense of relief and Stephen feels he is in good hands - with people who care and know what they're doing - and understand his anxieties.

The hospice is situated on the outskirts of town in lovely surroundings - trees and flowers abound everywhere. There is a sense of calm within the building and they have some very pretty curtaining in the lounge areas, which would make a jolly nice quilt. Talking of which, I may use one of my Singing Garden quilts as a raffle prize with proceeds to the hospice as a thankyou for the help they are giving Stephen and myself. Will give me an incentive to get it layered and quilted.

Oh dear . . .

We have another appointment at the hospice tomorrow morning - with the complementary therapy team - to see if massage and reflexology will benefit Stephen and help him to relax.

They also provide residential and day care which provides respite for both patient and carer.

I feel a load has been lifted from my shoulders - by the sheer fact I will receive support in helping Stephen to deal with this dreadful disease - and that he can now enjoy what is left of his life without the excruciating pain that has devastated him these past weeks.