I have spent the past few Sundays with “A.B.” and his wife, observing their love that has endured for over 50 years. Even in the face of illness and extended, multi-month hospice care, their love is strong—based on half a century of memories, unspoken understanding, and the kind of comfort that only comes after a … Continue reading “The Power of Presence”
An Inimitable Experience
My experience with the Athena Institute Pre-Med Hospice Volunteer Program has been overwhelmingly positive. I have been blessed with wonderful patients to work with as well as supportive and inspiring mentors to learn from. Upon assuming this position, I was, admittedly, very nervous. I had no prior experience with hospice care and no idea what … Continue reading “An Inimitable Experience”
Reflections on Conversations with HR
I have had the privilege of staying with one patient the entire program, and I’ll refer to him as HR from here onwards. HR has terminal kidney cancer and had a stroke a few years ago that led to cognitive deficits. As a result, he has memory issues and barely speaks. He currently resides at … Continue reading “Reflections on Conversations with HR”
The Power of Compassionate Patient Care
My first patient in the program was the most meaningful relationship, we will call her “Sally Great”. Our relationship grew gradually, marked by small, meaningful moments that left a lasting impression. Although we could not use words to communicate with each other, we understood each other’s hearts most importantly. She taught me how to love … Continue reading “The Power of Compassionate Patient Care”
My Journey and Evolvement through Hospice
A particular patient who stood out to me was my first patient, and even though we did not spend that much time together, she impacted my view of life the most. She taught me a lot based on her own life experiences. We would often discuss what was going on in my life or talk … Continue reading “My Journey and Evolvement through Hospice”
Reflection on Hospice Care
I believe this program has allowed me to grow in my understanding of palliative care. I am extremely grateful to have been able to participate in the Athena Hospice Volunteer program. Before entering the program, I had no exposure to nursing homes or the world of palliative care. I have not had any family members … Continue reading “Reflection on Hospice Care”
Hospice doesn’t mean hopeless
This past year, I have had the pleasure of visiting “Sarah”, a hospice patient with Alzheimer’s disease. Learning of her diagnosis was scary to learn at first, as I have a grandmother who has Alzheimer’s, and she can be very aggressive as a result. I was also warned that Sarah Alzheimer’s can make her aggressive. … Continue reading “Hospice doesn’t mean hopeless”
Reflection on Hospice Volunteer Experience
Concluding my volunteer experience is a reflective moment for me. When I began this journey, I was anxious, even with my past experiences working at senior homes throughout high school. I had never worked in hospice care, and this experience required higher levels of compassion, understanding, and patience. Throughout my time here, I have encountered … Continue reading “Reflection on Hospice Volunteer Experience”
Healing with Humanity
When I think of my most meaningful patient relationship, I think of my first patient, “Jane Doe”, who had a gentle soul but powerful presence. The first time we met, I leaned in to hear her ask for my name, and after I introduced myself, she responded with a warm smile. For the remainder of … Continue reading “Healing with Humanity”
A New Perspective on Death
One of the most important things working with hospice taught me was my view on death. As said in “Being Mortal”, being a physician or studying in medicine, we often think that it is our responsibility to beat death and overcome it. But death is a part of life and there is no stopping it. … Continue reading “A New Perspective on Death”