From the Desk of Janet
Dear friend,
It felt like a miracle — the day my mom, Betty, was admitted to Hospice Halifax. I had been holding my breath until we got here.
When we received her diagnosis that she had a brain tumour, as you can imagine, our family was heartbroken. We knew she wouldn’t ever be going home.
I heard of Hospice Halifax and knew they provided end-of-life care. What I didn’t know was how exceptional the care would be — not only for Mom but for our whole family.
The care began the moment we arrived.
When Mom realized how exceptional the care was going to be and how “homey” the space was, she kept asking, “How much is this going to cost me to be here?” I would tell her over and over, “Nothing Mom.”
Nothing. Because this is one of the many amazing things about Hospice Halifax.
There is no cost.
This is because of wonderful donors like you who generously support Hospice Halifax. I can’t thank you enough for what your gifts meant for Mom and our family. As I share our story with you, I hope you’ll consider making a donation today. Your gift will make an immeasurable difference for patients and their families at such a challenging time.
Growing up, we didn’t have a lot, but Mom had this magical ability to take the simplest ingredients and make an amazing meal. I was always asking, “How did you do that?” And no meal was complete without a sweet treat!
So, when Mom met Gary, the Hospice cook, there was an immediate connection. They spoke the same love language…food!
As her health declined, Gary was right there to adjust her meals — even before we had to ask.
Before Mom arrived at Hospice Halifax, we did our best to provide the personal care she needed, rotating family schedules and getting supplies. It was hard, stressful and exhausting.
It was hard for Mom, too. She hated feeling as if she was a burden to us.
This was another treasure Hospice gave us — the chance to just be a family again. Spend meaningful time together. Create beautiful, lasting memories. Share lots of laughter and more food!
One time stands out — Bingo night! Mom loved to play bingo.
With the help of the wonderful staff at Hospice Halifax, we were able to get Mom up to the Great Room.
We brought in chicken wings, dips and other tasty treats she loved. Of course, there were sweets. My son, Mark, made his famous chocolate chip cookies.
For a few hours, we played bingo, enjoyed great food and were a family again. This is the gift of Hospice Halifax.
Will you please consider making a donation today, so another family has the chance to create loving and beautiful memories at what is truly the most difficult time — the end of life of a loved one?
By making a gift, you will be giving another family treasured time with their loved one, and maybe their own “bingo night”.
Writing to you today, is my way to give back to Hospice Halifax and everything they did for us — for providing mom a beautiful, peaceful place to die. I know my mom Betty would be humbled to be sharing her story to help other families as they face the challenges of end-of-life care.
Thank you for reading our story and considering a donation to Hospice.
Sincerely,
Janet Wheadon
Betty’s daughter
PS: Please make your gift today. You’ll be helping other families spend treasured time with their loved one. Your gift will have a greater impact than you will ever know.
Questions?
If you have any questions or if you are having trouble with the online form, please contact:
Rebecca Sharratt