At just 56 years old, his life changed in ways no one could have imagined. Only three days after losing his father, he received the devastating diagnosis of rectal cancer.
A veteran who served his country in both the United States Navy and the National Guard, he proudly shared stories from his time serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. Like many veterans, he carried those experiences with quiet strength and humility.
Although he received benefits through the VA, those benefits did not cover hospice services. Without the support of Shepherd’s Cove, a critical gap in care would have remained.
When he first came into SCH care, he was living with severe and relentless pain. Many days his pain remained at a 10 out of 10. He could not lie flat in a bed and spent his nights trying to sleep in a recliner.
Along with the physical pain came an emotional burden. He feared that the odor from his cancer lesions would make it difficult for his family to be near him. The thought of becoming a burden weighed heavily on his heart.
Yet even in the midst of serious illness, his spirit remained remarkable. He and his wife shared a home filled with family and faith. Two of their children lived with them, along with their 14-year-old granddaughter. Together they openly shared their love for Jesus with everyone they met, holding tightly to hope and gratitude even during a difficult season.
Through the support of Shepherd’s Cove Hospice, his days began to look different. A hospital bed was placed in the living room so he could rest comfortably and finally sleep through the night. Hospice aides visited three times each week, helping with personal care that restored dignity and eased the worries he once carried about odor and hygiene.
His pain, once unbearable, was brought under control and was often five or less. He also received visits from a veteran volunteer who delivered monthly gifts and spent time in fellowship with a fellow serviceman who understood his journey. Even while facing a serious illness, he remained focused on staying positive and doing everything he could to avoid being a burden to the people he loved.
Support from the Shepherd’s Cove Foundation made this level of care possible. Because of the generosity of donors in our community, patients like him are able to receive compassionate hospice care regardless of financial circumstances.
Because of that generosity, a veteran, husband, father, and grandfather was able to spend his days surrounded by family, comfort, dignity, and faith.
"He carried so much fear when he first came to us, especially about becoming a burden to his family. Being able to help restore his comfort and dignity meant the world to him. Watching him rest, laugh with his family, and share his faith reminded all of us why this work matters so deeply.”
– Randi Simmons, LICSW