My Dad had a stroke in 2019, in the first few months of me starting my new job in the Hospice . In the following months, during his rehabilitation, I needed to accompany him to various appointments i.e. hospital, GP etc. The appointment times were usually during my working hours. As an organization, the Hospice allowed me flexible working which enabled me to carry out my role effectively, as well as providing caring needs for my Dad. My Dad lived independently for two years, but I was reassured to know I could meet his needs without worrying about taking time out of my working day. Over the following months, my Dad fell and broke his hip and spent three months in hospital. Following this, his health deteriorated and he became palliative. He was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia and needed more support. He was admitted to hospital a second time and spent four months there. My Dad understood he was palliative and his preferred place of care was his home. My family and I wanted to respect his wishes.
With the support of the Hospice I was able to do this. Not only did I have the expertise advice of the clinical staff, but I had the emotional support needed from my colleagues in the wider team. My Dad died peacefully at home with his family around him, which is what he wanted. He was the heart of our family and it meant so much to be able to fulfil his final wishes. I can’t express how fortunate I am to work for an organisation that enabled me to do this for my Dad.
Carolyn– Dementia Support Worker at Hospice of the Valleys
