Health care system there when it mattered most - Chemainus Valley Courier
Published 11:51 am Tuesday, August 11, 2026By Gayle MarshallThere are always many complaints about our health care system; I just had to write and express our experience with the Care we received!During the. . .
Published 11:51 am Tuesday, August 11, 2026By Gayle MarshallThere are always many complaints about our health care system; I just had to write and express our experience with the Care we received!During the last couple of months of my husband’s life, he had many visits to the hospital, with ambulance and emergency care, which was very stressful. But the last three weeks, he was able to be in the comfort of our home with palliative care. Here he was able to visit family from near and far, neighbors, and best friends until he passed away in my arms. The Palliative Care Team was nothing but awesome, from homecare aids, LPN’s, R. N’s, O. T. ’s, and social workers, to the palliative care doctor. His care was a top priority for everyone who visited our home. They were also concerned and caring about my state of mind and the stress level that I was experiencing. For three weeks, we had many caring individuals changing the hospital bed, providing personal care, attention to wishes and wants, and trying their best to make it pleasant and comfortable for his last days. Changing his wound bandages every 2nd day, changing pain medication when needed, calling pharmacists and doctors at all hours of the day and night were just part of the protocol. I was able to reach out in the middle of the night when I was confused about a medication or reaction, and there was always someone very knowledgeable and supportive on the other end of the call!Bruce’s and my wishes were for him to die in the comfort of our home naturally and with the support of this Incredible palliative care team. Wishes were granted!I would also like to thank our family doctor, Dr. Manhas, for all the years of being there for us!!Gayle MarshallCrofton