NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10 , 2008

NATIONAL HOSPICE and PALLIATIVE CARE MONTH:
Find Out What to Expect and How to Choose Care for a Loved One Confronted with a Terminal Illness

Sheboygan, Wis. --November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Many people have heard things about hospice that are confusing or frightening, but if you take some time to find out about hospice care, it may be the best option for a loved one confronted with a terminal illness.

Hospice care is for people with a terminal illness who are nearing the end of their lives, usually with a prognosis of 6 months or less. The Hospice professionals at St. Nicholas Hospital can help you find out what to expect and how to choose a hospice care service that is right for you or your loved one. They are committed to providing the highest quality of life to their patients and patient's families, physically, psychologically, spiritually and financially, through the course of a terminal illness. Hospice also provides bereavement services to families after their loved one has died.

"We are dedicated to giving love, dignity, comfort and providing the highest level of care to each person," says Tanya Smith, St. Nicholas Hospice Coordinator. "I know we are making a difference by helping to provide peace during a very difficult time for our patients."

Many people receiving hospice care have cancer, but hospice is available for people with any terminal illness. In general, hospice care is for those who have been evaluated by a doctor and have six months or less to live. Ms. Smith says, "Seeking hospice care, earlier rather than later, provides a better chance of a peaceful and high-quality end-of-life experience."

With hospice care, instead of spending a loved one's last weeks or months in a hospital, a person is able to stay at home or their choice of residence, such as a nursing home, assisted living facility, or family member's home. The Hospice Care service team at St. Nicholas Hospital is composed of nurses, social workers, therapists, home health aides, homemakers, volunteers, and Spiritual and Pastoral Support Services. These entities all focus on maximizing the patient's independence, quality of life, and making sure the person is able to stay at home with friends and family--the most important things in life . 

About St. Nicholas Hospital
St. Nicholas Hospital is a non-profit hospital sponsored by the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis located at 3100 Superior Avenue, Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Their mission and vision is to provide family-centered, compassionate care without regard for race, creed, or ability to pay. This is achieved through the core values of respect, care, competence, and joy.

To learn more, visit www.stnicholashospital.org .

CONTACT: Xue Yang
Marketing Assistant
St. Nicholas Hospital
3100 Superior Avenue
Sheboygan , WI 53081
920-459-4739
xyang@sns.hshs.org

 

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