"My experience with the Sutherland Hospital Palliative care Community Care Team"

my health has been declining rapidly. I have Post polio syndrome and PSP. In May I was admitted to hospital with an acute bowel obstruction. I was then transferred to a private hospital for Rehab. During my admission, my wife of 64 years passed away in Sutherland Hospital. I was discharged home on a level three Homecare package which provided 45 minutes Care three times a week. 11 four package was applied for when I got home however there is some wait for this. 

The 45 minutes, three times a week was not enough care as I am unable to feed myself or toilet myself or transfer myself. When I first came home, I was able to walk short distances with a walker, however this quickly got worse until i needed someone to help me walk with the walker. Now I am unable to walk with the walker at all. as it was clear that I needed more Care, pay for Private care to come in 3 times a day seven days a week. I also bought a wheelchair a cushion and I’m hiring a hospital bed.

My daughter realised that we needed help and asked for a referral to Community palliative care services. we are so blessed to have been given an appointment quite quickly. 

My daughter took me to my first appointment with the Team. From the minute she wheeled me through the front door it was clear that this was a team that really cared. Georgie, the receptionist offered me a cup of coffee and then Christian the nurse made it with thickener as I need the fluids. Nothing was too much trouble and they were gentle and kind. I felt like they saw me as an individual rather than just as an old man who can’t move very much.

The time and gentle professional and courteous way in which Camilla the specialist and Christian took my history and asked me about my pain and my life was so respectful and professional. They weren’t just kind, they demonstrated incredible expertise and I feel so safe and like someone has my back. and wanted to support my wishes as much as possible. The other member of the team I met was Gina the occupational therapist who could not have been more helpful. I am so so grateful to have met this wonderful team.