Angeling
a Terminal Patient...
It is a rare privilege to
Angel someone who is dying… you have the opportunity to add cheer and
friendship to their last days on earth.
* The most important factor
when Angeling a terminal patient is CONSISTENCY! People with terminal
illnesses are often abandoned by friends and family, leaving them lonely and
depressed. Your continuing presence in the patient’s life is more important
than what you send, etc...
* Angels should never broach the subject of
a patients stage four prognosis. This is best left to the patients family,
friends and clergy. Our "job" is strictly to send cheer and encouragement
through the mail.
* You will be better
equipped to help your patient if you take it upon yourself to learn about
his/her illness. Consult medical reference books at your local library.
Request information from educational associations, such as the National
Cancer Institute. Research online through a search engine.
* What do you say? Tell
your patient how much he/she means to you. Reminisce about fun times/good
vacations/memorable moments you’ve had in your life. Share the small events
of your day. Avoid sending a generic greeting card unless you’ve
personalized it with a heartfelt message, and NEVER send get-well-soon
cards.
* What should you NOT say?
"I understand how you feel." " It is God's will." "Its for the best." "
Don't talk like that (about death or about dying)." " Be strong." " You
can't die."
* As an occasional
alternative to a card or note, consider sending video or audio taped “notes”
to your patient.
* Help them celebrate
holidays (and life) by sending decorations for their hospital room or home,
or by sending flowers or a plant.
* Send gift certificates
for video rentals, bookstores, or a restaurant in their town who delivers.
* Be creative. Send taped
music, a poster for the wall, cookies for your patient to share with family
and friends.
* What's in the news?
Magazines, photos, newspapers, and current event reports keep patients from
feeling the world is passing them by.
* Supply a journal for your
patient to keep.
* Send a blanket, quilt,
toy or stuffed animal to have at beside
* Do not forget your
patients family/caregivers. Every now and then include a card or gift for
them, as well.
* For helpful tips and ideas from other
Angels regarding how to Angel and end stage or hospice patient,
click here...
