Linda’s Story: Lights of Life 2024
Linda and Francis at Hospice House in Davis Bay.
Dear Community,
If you had told me three years ago that I would be moving from my home in Alberta to live on the Sunshine Coast as a full-time caregiver to my mom Frances, I would have found that thought implausible.
After dad passed away, mom was diagnosed with cancer. She responded to chemotherapy and entered remission. This gave us hope, but then she suffered a stroke that drastically altered her life. Living in isolation and without support was no longer an option.
Post-stroke, my mother struggled with essential self-care; her friendships faded, and she became increasingly dependent on others while she stopped doing what she loved. Life, as we knew it, was no more.
In search of adequate support, I found myself at a loss until a nurse informed me that Coast Hospice offers support for individuals experiencing a life-limiting illness and their caregivers.
Coast Hospice is a safe place where people understand that my mom is unwell and I am constantly stressed. It’s like visiting friends twice a week. The Circle has created a sense of community for her and me—completely free of charge.
The Circle provides mom with a social outlet that I can count on. It constantly improves her well-being. For two mornings a week, her isolation diminishes while her inner strength, communication and sense of community grow.
Hospice House is in a serene setting, surrounded by gardens and forests and the soothing sounds of a nearby creek. Here I can step outside, breathe deeply, and appreciate that mom is among caring individuals who value her presence and gently encourage her engagement in various activities—I am very grateful for this.
It reassures me to be surrounded by wonderful healing energy that comes from a loving community of volunteers. If you can support Hospice through a donation, I encourage you to do so. These programs are life-saving.
With gratitude,
Linda Young