St. Bernard Hospital’s Post

Every childhood needs magic, no matter how short it might be.  Today on the international day of children’s palliative care, we are launching a new short film: Childhood Needs Magic. Narrated by Dr Ranj Singh, the film introduces four children supported by NHS and children’s hospice professionals from Noah's Ark Children's Hospice, Jessie May and Havens Hospices. This new film shines a light on children’s palliative care and shows that expert support to children who are likely to have short lives, when and where they need it, brings magic to children’s lives. Unfortunately inaccurate perceptions of children’s palliative care are compounding challenges families with seriously ill children experience, leading to isolation. No matter how short a life is, with the right support, seriously ill children can experience the joy, fun, and magic that every childhood needs. Please watch and share.

Here’s our story: Quick backstory: The Lighthouse Community Hospice was established in a world where talking about death is taboo. Facing the discomfort many feel around end-of-life discussions. One quirky fact: we consider ourselves 'boutique' hospice care. The odds: To say we were set up for success from the start would be a stretch. The chances of transforming hospice care were slim. And only a few break the stigma around death. The goal: But we had our sights set on personalizing end-of-life journeys. For years, relentless about understanding, respecting, and compassion. The obstacle: Success was a mountain taller than expected. Complex emotions. Confusing healthcare navigation. Diverse cultural needs. By the early days, the challenge seemed insurmountable. The breakthrough: Then, a shift happened. Stories of comfort and dignity spread. And it became clear; we were making a difference. The achievement: We introduced services like 'Death Doula Services.' Offered support tailored to cultural and spiritual needs. And most importantly, we helped families feel less alone. The lesson: Our story shows the power of compassion, respect, and understanding. It underscores the importance of normalizing conversations around death. Because when we focus on what matters, our path becomes clear. We just need time to catch up. Join our community to normalize the conversation about end-of-life care. #CompassionateCare #EndOfLife #HospiceSupport #normalizingtheconversation

This Children’s Hospice Week, we need YOU to take on Together for Short Lives’ 99,000 Steps Challenge to help children all over the UK like Oscar. Oscar was born with quadriplegia cerebral palsy, a four-limb movement disorder. In 2019 as Oscar’s condition declined and his needs began to change, he was referred to Little Havens Children's Hospice. At Little Havens, everything Oscar loves is around him. The respite is a fun time for Oscar on his good days, or he can have a more restful stay with round-the-clock care. Oscar’s mum, Adelaide, says, “It’s much more to us than respite; they help to get the best out of each day for Oscar. If he’s having a good day and really smiley and happy, they go outside because they know that’s something he loves and is important to him. They want to make Oscar happy, and that’s what Little Havens does for us as a family – nothing is impossible.” Children's hospices are a lifeline for families like Oscar's. But with a growing number of children needing support, and the rising costs of care, hospices are being pushed to their limits. With your help, services can be there for families today, tomorrow, and into the future. Sign up for Together for Short Lives’ 99,000 Steps Challenge today: https://lnkd.in/eERsJrKa And with one small step, you can make one huge difference. #99000StepsChallenge #ChildrensHospiceWeek

Have you wondered why we often talk about monthly giving? Do you ever think: How could even a small gift each month help? Why does it make a difference if I give once or twice a year versus each month? A monthly gift enables us to plan. We can count on a steady stream of income each month so we can plan our operations accordingly. It means we can hire permanent staff, retain consistent clinic days week to week, supply our pharmacy with the same formulary month to month. Most importantly, it means we can be a reliable partner for our patients who count on us. Did you know that more than 300 patients seek care from us every month? Imagine if we could match that number with just as many monthly givers! We currently have 30 faithful monthly givers ❤️ Thanks to each and every one of you! Let's do this! Are you ready to directly support health and healing in the highlands? A monthly gift of any amount has an impact! See just how far your contribution will go: $10 a month provides a patient with a teeth cleaning $25 a month provides a chronic illness patient their monthly check-up $50 a month provides breakfast and snack to two students for a month $100 a month provides referrals and social services to 20 families Follow the link below to begin giving today… https://lnkd.in/gYr3x9mZ

Family caregivers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of their loved ones and, by extension, the overall health of our communities. They provide living assistance while often juggling jobs and family life. Yet, the health care system often fails to acknowledge and address the unique needs of caregivers. Supported by Administration for Community Living and led by Community Catalyst, our new "Amplifying the Power of Family Caregiver Voices Project," is bringing together partners across nine states to ensure that our health care system is more supportive, responsive to, and inclusive of, caregivers in diverse communities across the country. Learn more below. By increasing awareness of caregiving issues and fostering community engagement of caregivers in decision-making, we're working to ensure caregivers get the support they need. Have you or someone you know provided extended care and assistance for another person? We want to hear from you! Record a short video and share with us what knowledge or resources you found to be helpful in this role >> https://commcat.io/3xnIejS

Transformative change in pediatric care is expanding thanks to ZERO TO THREE’s HealthySteps.     HealthySteps is revolutionizing early childhood development by integrating a holistic, family-centered approach into pediatric care. Their model focuses on providing comprehensive support for families, ensuring that children’s social, emotional, and developmental needs are met from the very start.     The impact is profound. By embedding child development experts into pediatric practices, HealthySteps helps address issues early, reducing the need for more intensive interventions later. This approach not only supports healthier child development but also optimizes healthcare resources and improves long-term outcomes.     With Blue Meridian’s investment, HealthySteps is expanding its reach, demonstrating how strategic investments can foster healthier futures for our youngest generations.     Discover more about this groundbreaking initiative and its positive impact on families and communities:  https://lnkd.in/eB295vYM 

💙 Planning Ahead for Hospice: Why It Matters At Amedicus Hospice, we believe that early planning for hospice care can make a significant difference for families. Here’s why it’s so important: • Peace of Mind 🧠: Planning ahead reduces stress, providing clarity for families during a difficult time. • More Time for Quality Moments 🕰️: When care plans are in place early, families can focus on spending meaningful time together. • Honoring Wishes 🌿: Having conversations early ensures that your loved one’s preferences and desires are respected. We’re here to guide you through every step. Learn more about planning for hospice care at www.amedicushospice.org or contact us at (469) 389-1028. #HospicePlanning #PeaceOfMind #AmedicusHospice

Miracles for Tiny Tims: The Inspiring Story of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.This book isn't a medical textbook, it's a story. A story of courage, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a fighting chance. It's the story of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals), a beacon of hope for countless families facing the unimaginable - a sick child. https://lnkd.in/gnmW6c2A

Most people seek hospice care because they want to ensure comfort and peace in life's final chapter. But these are the unexpected ways embracing life's moments for a decade has led to massive personal growth: At The Lighthouse Community Hospice Inc, we've understood the unspoken power of cultural and spiritual respect in hospice care. It's not just about medical support; it's about honoring the person's life story, their traditions, and spiritual beliefs. We've seen families find solace and strength during the end-of-life transition through personalized rituals and practices that reflect their cultural heritage. By normalizing these crucial conversations, we help minimize fear and stigma, creating a pathway of understanding and acceptance. Our approach has not only provided comfort to those in their final days but also enriched the lives of their loved ones left behind, through a deeper connection and honoring of legacy. This is the heart of hospice care. Share if you believe in compassionate end-of-life care or comment with your thoughts. Contact us for compassionate end-of-life care. #HospiceCare #EndOfLife #CulturalRespect #normalizingtheconversation

My heart wrenched as I watched this video. It was a hard video to watch, especially when Andrew answered the question: Do you want to die at home or in a hospice?" A powerful reminder of hospices' vital work in providing compassionate care during difficult times. I asked myself what was it like for Andrew to make that video. In those first few seconds, you could see a change in his expression as he answered, realising that whatever brought him to St Francis Hospice - who are very good, by the way - his situation was undeniably real. It's a tough place to be. Watching this video made me reflect on how often we are encouraged to be grateful for even the slightest things. While this is a good practice, I invite you to take this further. Consider this: Are you noticing what you are constantly thinking about? Are you replaying past situations, incidents or comments that hurt you? Do you continue to relive it? Because stress is widely recognised as a significant factor contributing to many illnesses. Notice what you are thinking about and ask yourself if those thoughts are serving you to live a happier life. Is it worth it? As morbid as it sounds, the Stoics had a phrase worth remembering: memento mori—remember you will die - as a profound reminder of our mortality and the impermanence of life. I repeat it to myself whenever I notice I'm making a big deal out of nothing. Make the most of your week ahead.