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January 2023

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Notes From Friends

Hospice of the Valleys serves hundreds of patients each and every year. We honor them by sharing their stores. They remind us every day of the meaning and purpose in our work and that human connection is at the heart of the hospice experience.

The following are notes Hospice of the Valleys has received from the families of patients that we have been privileged to provide hospice care.

"Thank you for the love and care that you gave my husband. The word 'Thank you' does not say all we feel!"

"I would like to truly thank everyone involved for the wonderful care (my husband) received. You made his passing so much easier. I would also like to thank the support team that has reached out to me. I appreciate all that you do. Thanks to all of you!"

The Ministry of Presence

Mike Patton,
Bereavement Counselor/Spiritual Care

Sometimes we chaplains use a strategy called "the ministry of presence" in our effort to support our patients and families. It is an offer of self that is import demanding than you may realize. I have jokingly said that "the ministry of presence" is all I have to offer, especially when I engage in the unwise sport of comparing my skills to that of my musically trained colleagues! The truth is the ministry of presence is no joking matter... it is a powerful and demands more than simply occupying space.

The ministry of presence self-awareness that is able to manage emotions and physical expressions that communicate an open heart. Finding an appropriate balance of an honest expression of emotion with that of being fully present for the other can be challenging. I like to take a deep breath and slow everything down in order to be mindful of the surroundings before engaging in service. The self-awareness of the caregiver can be very helpful to the recipient of that care as a guide forward, allowing a clamp presence to smooth the way for open and honest sharing.

The ministry of presence also requires self-control. I have always liked the idea of showing up with a "yes face." A "yes face" invites the other to share whatever is on their heart and mind. It takes advantage of the two ears/one mouth ratio of our face and values the art of listening over the need to say something. It is so tempting to speak when there are patches of silence, filling the awkward silence with nervous energy and mindless chatter. So much better is it to patiently endure the silence and listen to the one ware there to serve.

The ministry of presence also requires self-esteem. If I am not confident in my own skin, that lack of confidence will seek to find fulfillment through effort rather than seeking to give appropriate service that is other-focused. A good self-esteem allows us to be fully present without regard for meeting any of our own needs. The truth is, our self-esteem is often a work in progress, building on failed efforts and past mistakes.

So, the ministry of presence is personally demanding and very serious. However, I have never laughed more, accomplished more, or been more deeply satisfied with my work than when I have exercised the ministry of presence, sharing space with others in calmness, patience and confidence. Try this at home... your loved ones will thank you!

Covid-19 Pandemic - What to Expect in 2023

Dr. Leslee B. Cochrane,
Executive Medical Director

It has been almost three years since the first confirmed case of Covid-19 in California, which occurred on January 26, 2020. In the past three years, we have learned a lot about how the Covid-19 virus spreads and now have several immunizations and various treatments available to help mitigate the effects of the virus. The current Public Health Emergency related to Covid-19 is set to expire on January 11, 2023 but will likely be extended through April of 2023 to allow for the 60-day notice, which the Department of Health and Human Services has pledged to give before ending the public health emergency.

The World Health Organization (WHO) first declared Covid-19 a public health emergency on January 30, 2020 and later declared the outbreak as a worldwide pandemic on March 11, 2020. When a new rapidly spreading disease develops, it is initially described as an "epidemic." If that new disease begins to cause widespread disruption and illness, it is then described as a "pandemic." Once the disease becomes more stable and manageable, it is then referred to as being an "endemic" disease or virus.

The seasonal flu is an example of a virus, which has been with us for quite some time and is now considered "endemic." Although there may be seasonal outbreaks of the flu and occasional "epidemics", there are vaccinations and treatments to help prevent the flu from becoming a pandemic. Although the COvid-19 Public Health Emergency remains in effect for now, most experts agree that the Covid-19 pandemic is moving toward "endemic" status at this time. This does not mean that the Covid-19 virus has been eradicated; but rather that is now become less widespread and more manageable. Covid-19 will likely be with us for years to come, much as the seasonal flu, which changes, strains from year to year. Just as we have immunizations and treatments for the flu, there are immunizations and treatments to aid in the battle against Covid-19.

As we transition from pandemic to endemic status regarding Covid-19 in the months to come, the CDC will continue to provide updated guidance regarding Covid-19. To learn more about the most up to date CDC recommendations for Covid-19 care and treatment options please refer to their website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/index.html

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  • Top Work Places 2014-2021 Award
  • Hospice Honors Elite
  • Hospice of the Valleys - Celebrating over 40 years
  • We Honor Veterans
  • Community Health Accreditation Partner Seal
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  • Introduction to Hospice
  • Choosing Hospice
  • Paying for Hospice
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