“I think they are a very rare handful of people with an innate understanding of how to care for the dying and their families. They didn’t just care for the patient, they cared for us all.”
My Mom was a private person. And we are a close family. When it was apparent Mom was actively dying we knew we wanted and needed a private, family friendly place for her to be. Percy’s Place was the obvious alternative to a noisy, busy hospital. In fact, it was exactly what we needed.
My sister and I arrived completely unannounced to see if Percy’s Place was where our mom should be. Jill Hacket, the Nurse Manager, was gracious and kind enough to drop everything and give us a tour. We were immediately smitten. Mom was moved there shortly after. Percy’s was peaceful, quiet and allowed us a huge sigh of relief.
Mom had a spacious, light room with a large bathroom, lots of storage for personal items; a comfy chair and a huge television. We were encouraged to bring personal items that made Mom, and us, comfortable and feel at home. She had her pillows, quilt and afghan. Staff brought in fresh flowers. There was a little alcove with a toaster, a perpetual coffee pot, and treats that came out of no where along with a little fridge for odds and ends.
Mom was greeted by two LPN’s who had previously taken care of her. They smiled and welcomed us all. Mom’s care truly was second to none. I am familiar with Palliative Care nursing and am aware of the standards. Those standards were consistently and continually exceeded. The staff always called Mom by her name and spoke to her though she couldn’t respond. They acknowledged us and our needs. They offered little things, be it a cup of coffee or some toast, help with the new TV or a charging cord for cellphones.
The staff were on top of Mom’s medication needs. Pain medication administration was timely, consistent and appropriate. She had the best of physical care. She always’ looked comfortable. Therefore, we were comfortable too. The staff engaged us. They deferred to our preferences when requested. And when we were exhausted, they provided us comfort too.
We took advantage of the clean quiet beds to sleep; a quiet and private space for our own personal care; a kitchen table for us to eat breakfast and make plans for Mom’s inevitable ending. They let me bring in my dog who Mom loved. One of the hardest things at the hospital for me was going in through the lobby and chatting with well meaning people but that was so hard. Somehow Percy’s staff knew just how much to chat and when to allow me to come and go as needed. I don’t think they know how much I appreciated that.
It is a state-of-the-art facility with staff who have the most up to date knowledge. Actually, I think they are a very rare handful of people with an innate understanding of how to care for the dying and their families. They didn’t just care for the patient, they cared for us all. The housekeeper, the cook, the LPN’s and Nurses….they are perfect for this “job”. And Dr. Losier, well, it goes without saying, where would we have been without him? Thank you just isn’t enough.
Every Miramichier deserves this opportunity, this haven. We unreservedly need to support this hospice. Every person, every family will face this. Every family deserves Percy’s Place.
Sincerely
Tambrie MacDonald