How I Helped My Mother Choose Hospice Care

As a hospice physician who has cared for thousands of patients at the end of their lives, I had always assumed that hospice care would be an obvious choice for my mother when it came time for her to die. We had talked openly about my work for many years so I was not prepared for the fear and resistance that came up for her when it was time to choose the next steps in her medical care. Read More

Leaving a Legacy – Colorado Mountain Boardwalk for the Disabled

Roger West, a recent patient with The Denver Hospice, left a living legacy — he opened the Colorado wilderness to those with disabilities, their families and caregivers. After his father had lost his ability to walk following surgery, Roger dreamed of building a trail to provide wheelchair access to Colorado’s colorful outdoors. He found the perfect place in Park County, Colorado. And he wasn’t about to let 9,200 feet of elevation stand in the way. Read More

I Became Best Friends with a Hospice Patient

Sitting in her wheelchair, Florence smiles up at Felicia as she carefully paints Florence’s nails with shimmering gold polish. Felicia then gently applies a light coat of lipstick to finish the look. Florence Grant is a 94-year-old, non-verbal woman without any family in the area. In the care of The Denver Hospice, she was introduced to Felicia Kile, a volunteer. Eight months ago they were strangers. Today they are best friends. Read More