Kathy’s journey through hospice care wasn’t just about managing pain; it was about listening to her unique needs and honoring her love for nature. With VNS Health by her side, Kathy found peace in the comfort of her own home.
Kathy* led a life defined by her love for nature. She didn’t just nurture plants; she listened to them. Kathy’s apartment bloomed with greenery that showed stories of love, care, and quiet strength. She even made space for soon-to-hatch pigeon eggs on her windowsill.
So when it came time for her own care, those around her would need to listen just as closely to her needs, words, and pace of life.
With the support of her VNS Health Hospice Care team, Kathy was able to write the final chapter of her life in her own way.
Cultivating End-of-Life Care
The same concept applies to end-of-life care. While hospice care teams are experts in their field, people are experts of their own lives. How Kathy wanted to live her final days was just as crucial as her medical needs. As she would often say, “Listen to the plants. They will tell you what they need. Trust their communication.”
Listening played a key role in honoring Kathy’s needs. Rather than posing a list of questions, the hospice care team gave her space to talk about what she wanted. From there, the team provided care that fit her needs through all stages of her journey.
As time passed, Kathy faced increasing health issues that made it harder to do things on her own. It was up to the hospice care team to help her feel independent. “She’s spent her life being in charge. It was really important for her to have us receive with seriousness and care the things she cares about,” explains Anna, VNS Health Hospice Spiritual Care Counselor.
Caring Through Nature’s Lens
Kathy’s love for nature shaped how she wanted to be cared for. She taught her team that care is more than medicine — it’s emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal. Just as plants have their specific needs to thrive, people need individualized care.
By viewing Kathy’s journey through the lens of nature, her hospice team offered more than clinical support. They were present, gentle, and responsive — allowing Kathy to guide her care, just as she once guided her garden.
The Benefits of Hospice for Caregivers and Families
Gardens thrive when all their parts — soil, roots, and plants — are cared for. The same is true for families and caregivers when a loved one needs hospice care. Hospice care at home doesn’t just care for the person; it also supports the well-being of those around them.
Grounded in expert care, hospice eases the burden of caregiver duties on family and friends. This gives family members and loved ones space to be present in the final days of the person they love.
In Kathy’s case, hospice care allowed her to stay in her own home instead of a nursing facility or hospital. She could feel comfortable and independent in a familiar setting.
During her care, one final special moment occurred: Kathy’s pigeon eggs hatched. As the hospice care team focused on patience and care, the new life in her home served as a reminder that there is always room for growth, hope, and unexpected joy.
Your donation can help people like Kathy as they navigate hospice care.
For more information about giving, contact our Development team at 1-212-609-1525 or [email protected].
