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Our spiritual self is the part of each individual that is unique, the innermost part of each of us that searches for meaning. As life draws to a close and grief is woven into the fabric of our days, that search for meaning becomes increasingly urgent. Hence, dying and grieving are every bit as much spiritual events as they are medical events. People are created to love and to help each other. The chaplain’s question, “How is your spirit?” is an invitation to spiritual companionship with our patients as they search their lives for meaning. ...
Continue readingFor Ipswich native and New England Patriots fan Steve Brown, “Do your job” is more than a popular phrase; it’s a philosophy to which he has subscribed through five bouts of cancer over 32 years. For his entire adult life, Steve did whatever it took to provide for his family. The adversity started early, but like a true Patriot, he met it head-on every time. ...
Continue readingHospice nurses bring comfort to patients at end of life. I recently got to accompany two of our hospice nurses on patient visits at long-term care facilities. It was a great morning. ...
Continue readingSometimes a chaplain's gentle touch can make a connection with a hospice patient As a hospice chaplain, I hear the most amazing life stories that transport us into a vivid history. One never knows where these visits will carry us. ...
Continue readingGene and Helen Galipeau may have lived the consummate love story of their generation. Both born in 1924, they met and fell in love during World War II. That love grew during nearly 72 years of marriage and culminated in ultimate devotion to each other during their final day on Earth. ...
Continue readingAccording to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as many as 5.8 million people in the U.S. suffer from heart failure and one-fifth of them will die within one year of diagnosis. While these statistics can be daunting, there are ways to improve quality of life and make each day more manageable for those living with advanced cardiac disease. ...
Continue readingCare Dimensions volunteer and donor Lisa Alcock of Weston and Gloucester, MAThere are endless opportunities to donate time and money to good causes. The mission statements are compelling and the reasons for committing to those charitable efforts are readily evident. Yet, when I was looking for a new chance last year to make a difference, Care Dimensions became my obvious choice.My decision was no...
Continue readingI always knew I wanted to be in a helping profession, as I love working, learning, and talking to people. During college, I found that social work was what I wanted to do. After working with children, teens, and victims of domestic violence, I found that these were great learning opportunities, but not a perfect fit for my personality. I began working with the geriatric population in various capacities and five years ago made my way to working as a hospice social worker, where I truly have found my calling. ...
Continue readingWe live in an increasingly non-religious society. Many people abandon organized religion. More people identify as spiritual, not religious. I believe God gave us faith; humanity created religion! ...
Continue readingHospice chaplains work within the realms of mystery and meaning. When you work with the soul of a person rather than their physical body, you are in a place that defies definition and is so vast in its importance, it can seem daunting. There are no specific protocols to follow, no prescribed systems for “fixing” what might be ailing the spirit of a patient. ...
Continue readingAnyone—patient, family, care provider—can make a referral. Fill in the form online or call us today.
Since 1978, Care Dimensions, formerly Hospice of the North Shore, has provided comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals and families dealing with life-threatening illnesses. As the non-profit leader in advanced illness care, we offer services in over 100 communities in Massachusetts.
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