Photo by Dawn Rankins
Club hears about end of life care
Members of the Canyon Lake Woman’s Club enjoyed coming together last week for their monthly luncheon and were enlightened by host guest speakers who presented a very sensitive, but very real, topic.
Cindy Cameron, Jennifer Partridge and Alison Ibarra from Arbor Hospice shared information on the rights of patients who are facing end-of-life decisions. They also spoke on what to look for in a support system when facing the reality of needing caregivers.
Alison spoke on why she does this type of work and how important it is to her.
“The day I stop crying when someone passes, is the day I stop what I do,” she said. “Each patient is so important to me and I feel a sense of loss when they pass.”
A complete information packet was handed out to each person in attendance that highlights the points covered at the luncheon and that can be referred to in the future should the information be needed.
The speakers from Arbor Hospice covered topics that included what to ask a caregiver, how the hospice program works and what a team of providers does to help, not only the patient, but the family.
Members of the Canyon Lake Woman’s Club mingle after their February meeting where representatives of hospice and palliative care spoke to the group. Photo by Dawn Rankins.
Jennifer Dain, a Canyon Lake resident, City of Canyon Lake Councilmember, and president of Caregiver Provider – Home Care with Heart, spoke briefly.
Jennifer discussed a program called “Take the Afternoon Off” and how it works. The program is designed for caregivers. She spoke on the importance of caregivers taking care of not only the patient, but of themselves.
“I’m here to help and I’m here for you and others should you need help or simply have questions,” Jennifer said.
Remembrance Bears, which are crafted from a piece of clothing of a loved one that is treasured, was discussed at the meeting.
Remembrance Bears are in no way intended to replace what has been lost, members of the club were told, however, it’s a way that may bring comfort. The bears or pillows are made as a remembrance piece that can be held and felt.
For more information on hospice care, Arbor Hospice can be reached at 951-658-9288. Jennifer Dain can be contacted at her business Caregiver Provider — Home Care with a Heart in the Canyon Lake Town Center or by emailing her at jennifer@caregiverprovider.com.