My sister went to spend a few hours at her local hospice this week, with a view to going regularly, as her illness progresses. It has a great reputation. It was sold to her by the hospice worker as a place to go and do a variety of therapies and activities, and where she could become familiar with the surroundings as she wants to go in the hospice if she is too ill to be nursed at home.
She came home very disappointed. She is only 62, but she said that there was little on offer, shortage of staff, and they said she could join in 'doing quizzes.' She can do that at home with her family, and we have lots of other things that we think up to keep her interested and active.
I asked if I could visit and sit with her for an hour or so when she goes, but it seems that's not allowed (eh?) I asked about the set-up and it seems carers have to drop off the patients at the front door and they don't go in. I imagine it's different when they're staying as an in-patient.
She has enough energy and spirit for her (and me) to see the lack of user-friendliness in this, and we joked about changing the regime, as this isn't our idea of offering some support to cancer patients, unless they are in bed, in which case why not stay in your own comfy bed? Perhaps the visit is just respite for the carer? Her husband certainly needs a break, which we try to help with, but not at the expense of her spending a day bored out of her head. She's going to give it another try next week, in case she caught them on an off day 
Oh when, I had such hopes for her recently as you know, but am pleased you feel she is at last a little comfortable after this latest crisis.
Glad you're feeling brighter this morning, too. BIG hug. 
x
I visited my sister in the hospice yesterday and the restrictions for day visitors as opposed to in-patients have started to make sense. The hospice is tiny - only 5 beds, with a small suite for day visits/respite which is separated from the rest of the hospice where the amenities are. Day visitors can have reflexology, see the doctor, relax in a tiny lounge, and there are visits from a local artist. Hence, no room for family to visit for the five or six hours she is there for a respite day. Because it's so small, there is a fund-raising campaign to build a larger hospice nearby.
The hospice is lovely - very welcoming and each room is set around a pretty courtyard garden which is lit up at night. My sister is very comfortable there and visiting is free. There is a room for any relatives who need to stay the night, and light refreshments on hand in case family can't get out to find a meal.
She is staying till next Monday, and will be able to go back for a few days and the odd respite day, depending on how she is. Such a relief to see her comfortable in a homely setting, with nurses on hand at all times, and my BIL looking relaxed and not on high alert
So glad you are happy with the care your sister is receiving when. I do hope this will help all of you to get your breath back and give your sister the strength she needs to 'ride the storm'. It must be such a relief to all of you now you know exactly what is on offer - it sounds very warm and therapeutic 
for all of you
I agree that it does sound like a really good place, when - just like a hospice should be. What a relief for all of you to know it's there when you need it.
when, that sounds really nice and friendly. You can all relax a little if you know your sister is comfortable and settled. 
Is it in an area close to you?
Ella it's 20 minutes away from me and only 5 minutes from my daughter, who is her god-daughter. She's just been to visit with family photos of my litte twin grandsons trying on their new school uniform for starting school next month. It's so nice to do 'normal' in a safe, homely setting
I haven't posted about my lovely sister for some time, and have been spending lots of family time with her at the hospice, where she died peacefully last week, with my BIL at her side. The funeral is tomorrow. I woke up this morning, thinking today is the day to share my sad news, probably because the sun is shining here, I have prepared for tomorrow, and I have got out of bed without feeling that renewed sense of devastation each time it hits me. My sister endured some terrible times in the last year, and some uplifting times. We said all we wanted to say to each other, and now she's left me with beautiful memories. 
when. 
((((hugs))))
Oh when.
((((Hugs)))) when
when . I hope you have some rays of sun tomorrow as well. x
from me, too, when. How lovely to have had such a close bond with your sister and that you were able to be there for her right to the end.
A sad but very touching post, when.Thank you
You really are lovely people. I can look on here when I need some comfort in the next few days and weeks. Thank you
Deepest sympathy. Thinking of you
when only just seen! deepest sympathy
Thanks, and also thank you for the kind PMs that were sent over the last few weeks.
Deepest sympathy
when I seem to have missed this thread first time round. So sad to hear about your loss. Will be thinking of you tomorrow. I know what it is to lose a sister, I watched mine go downhill slowly and still miss her.
When
Thanks again, everyone.
when may your memories help you get through this difficult time, sending a (hug)
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