Action vs. InAction

One of my favorite things to do when I'm bored is people watch. I'm rather good at it - probably too good, I've realized. A few days ago I watched a little baby draped over his mother's shoulder who was about to spit up. My first thought was that someone needed to let the mom know that her baby was about to mess up her blouse and to try and quickly get a rag over her shoulder. However, that thought was quickly disrupted by another lady who quickly stuck out her hand and caught the mess before the mom even knew what was happening.

I was struck by how attentive and caring this lady must be to automatically act and help a stranger. I also felt sheepish for how I worried about helping someone instead of just helping.

Instead of hesitating, wondering if I will offend someone or following cultural expectations, I can do better at just helping when help is needed. Instead of worrying about how someone is going to do after the death of their loved one, I can be there for them now and continue to be there for them later. Instead of worrying about how a patient will react if I ask them how they are taking their own dying process, I can sincerely ask.

I'm glad I was people watching and able to observe a small act, but I hope next time, I will be the one who is actively helping people instead of the one watching.

Daffodils and Easter Gifts

Instead of delivering our normal flowers for the week before Easter, we'll be delivering daffodils from the American Cancer Society's "Daffodil Days" fundraiser. These daffodils will be more than just a beautiful gift, they're also a donation for a cancer-free future. I encourage you to purchase your own flowers and support the war against cancer. Go to daffodil.acsevents.org for more information on how you can support this event.

For those who normally purchase flowers for patients from a floral shop, please let me know if you'd be willing to pick up daffodils and an Easter gift from the Salt Lake or Orem office. If you're unable to pick up your flowers and gift, a staff member will deliver them to your patient. These flowers will only be available for pick up:

Monday, March 17th 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and

Tuesday, March 18th from 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Legislation Likely to Cut Hospice Reimbursement by 15%

From the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization:
"Hospice Community Call to Action: Administration Seeks 15% Cut in Hospice Rates... The Administration's last budget package to Congress specifically asked for drastic cuts in hospice reimbursement rates... It is imperative that each hospice mobilize people to write, call, email and speak to your federal representatives to oppose the budget package and, more importantly, to block the Administration rule making effort to cut hospice rates... Review and download the materials NHPCO has created to help you advocate for hospice – this includes talking points, a narrative, and a suggested letter." - www.nhpco.com

Hey Volunteers! This kind of cut can drastically change the services we provide. I know that if I was an administrator and I had to make a 15% cut to my program I would have to cut down on the support services. Chaplains would have to cut down on hours and see more patients in less time. Our wonderful services like Music Thanatology and Massage would be at risk of being cut alltogether. Even Volunteer Coordinators time would have to be cut back and less support given to volunteers. This legislation effects every hospice and each future patient we may serve. I urge you to go to the website above and advocate for hospice!