Ladena’s Story
Every life unfolds differently, with its own meanders and chapters. But for all of us, the value of compassion and dignity at the end of life remains constant. Ladena, a patient at Hospice of the Northwest, exemplifies how quality hospice care can illuminate a path forward, even for those facing life-limiting illness.
Facing a New Reality
Ladena was being treated for several serious conditions when her doctor delivered the difficult news: there were no further curative options. Like many in this situation, Ladena felt overwhelmed. After discussing her needs and diagnosis with her son, Ladena’s family introduced her to hospice care. This decision marked a turning point in her life.
“I knew I needed help,” Ladena recalled. “I said, ‘I need help. I really do. I need to know what’s going on in my life and how I can change it and get it better.'”
Personalized Care Makes a Difference
Hospice care prioritizes creating a customized care plan for each patient’s unique needs. Ladena’s care team, including a nurse case manager, social worker, spiritual care, and others, collaborated to create such a plan. This holistic approach transformed her life.
“I felt stuck and hopeless,” Ladena said. “But then hospice came in, and now I’m so happy with my life.”
A Renewed Lease on Life
After a few months of hospice care, Ladena thrived beyond her initial prognosis. Her quality of life improved dramatically. She received spiritual support and even regained the physical strength to enjoy singing karaoke, playing billiards and making her craft fans once again. The emotional support and symptom management provided by her team allowed Ladena to embrace life in ways she never thought possible.
“It just lights me up,” Ladena shared. “I have just been lit up and Hospice has made a whole new life for me.”
The Power of Integrative Services
Among the many services offered by Hospice of the Northwest, massage therapy has been especially beneficial for Ladena. She emphasizes the immediate and positive impact it has on her well-being:
“It brings me back to feeling so much better. The massage helps me be me again.”
Integrative services like massage therapy and therapeutic music sessions are crucial components of hospice care, offering therapeutic benefits beyond traditional medicine. Unfortunately, Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers don’t cover these services. Thanks to the philanthropic support of Hospice of the Northwest Foundation donors, hospice patients like Ladena have access to these services, enhancing their quality of life in transformational ways.
A Testament to Compassionate Care
Ladena’s story exemplifies the transformative power of hospice care for patients with life-limiting illnesses. Overwhelmed by her diagnosis initially, Ladena found renewed hope and vitality through a personalized care plan, emotional support, and integrative services. Her care team not only helped manage her symptoms but also empowered her to re-engage with cherished activities. This holistic approach significantly improved her overall well-being and extended her life beyond expectations. Ladena’s story underscores the essential role of compassion and dignity in end-of-life care.
Hospice of the Northwest is Here for You Too
At Hospice of the Northwest, we are dedicated to providing the same compassionate care that transformed Ladena’s life to you or your loved one as you navigate a life-limiting diagnosis. Early enrollment in hospice can significantly enhance quality of life by offering personalized support and services that bring comfort and joy.
We are here. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help by calling our office at (360) 814-5550 or visiting us at 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.