Everyone thinks the worst when they hear HOSPICE has been called in to help care for a loved one

As some of you may know, my Husband Lee, has been sick for 4 ½  years. I decided, after we learned of the new illness he was facing, Amyloidosis, that perhaps it was time to call Hospice. Lee had 2 strokes, heart problems and surgery and they couldn’t find out the other real reason he was still sick. Once it was diagnosed as Amyloidosis, a very new disease and not curable. It was time to take serious action.

The link to Hospice video with Margi and Lee Kyle. Denyse Burns, End of Life

Click on Image to See The End of Life Video with Margi, Lee & Denise Burns

As the founder of Little Smiles and a volunteer for Hospice, they came to mind first. I have always loved working with them and used them when my Mother was dying. Kind, Compassionate, Loving, Generous, Professional Nurses and Care takers that love what they do, and do it well.

I called my friend Jim Cooper, LCSW, Strategic Account Manager for Hospice & Palliative Care, Charlotte Region/ Lake Norman. That was 1 ½ years ago, and they are still going strong. Lee and I could not have been as positive or comfortable without their support. I know one of the reasons they took on our case so early, the diagnosis was not good and it is a new disease. They needed to learn how to work with other patients that have it.

Jim Cooper with his guitar singing and entertaining Lee. He even got Lee singing again. Lee had his own band years ago. Hospice goes the extra mile to make their patients comfortable.

I understand some of our friends and family felt I overreacted and got them in too soon. It can never be too soon. Our nurse, Karen Petty, said to us “The sooner the Better”. The biggest word in my vocabulary has and will always be Gratitude! I am grateful for every day and the time we have had together. Anger is a very sad and destroying emotion. It gets you to the grave much earlier and who wants to be remembered that way. Only you can change the way you are thinking and feeling. If necessary- tape yourself talking to your partner. Is that really how you want your partner to remember you? I have found for many; the tape recorder is your best friend. Forget it is running and just talk. Listen with an objective ear. I did just that when I was in a bad relationship and once, he heard how he sounded- it changed everything.

Dare to do something different and surprise your partner in a very special way.

Re-marry your Husband or Wife once again! It is beautiful and very special.

Lee and I got married on December 26, 30 years ago. Because of his illness, we couldn’t get out and celebrate our anniversary. We asked our Hospice Minister, Rick Felts if he would renew our vows on Lee’s birthday of January 19. What a day that was! Friends and family joined us and talked about gratitude! We both were very grateful to have been able to do just that, renew our vows. Love your partner in newer and better ways. Think about renewing your vows. The best way to show the person you love- you still love them.

Sealed it with a Kiss!

In closing, I want to remember Lee as the Special, loving Husband he has been and still is. The fun he brought to the relationship to say nothing of his support for me and all the crazy things I have done. Never questioning, always enjoying and never complaining.

A totally new meaning to Grateful and Gratutude. Change your attitude and it will change your life. Live each day to the fullest and look for a new look and name for Hospice. They are not changing their mission- – just giving themselves a newer look. They are simply -The Very BEST!

Margi Kyle- The Designing Doctor

Article and designs by Margi Kyle, Managing Editor
Photo courtesy of Deborah Young Studio

Do you have a Design Dilemma? Building a new home or renovating an existing one? We’ve got an expert here at LKNConnect — Margi Kyle. A professional Interior Designer for over 50 years, Margi has an extensive portfolio, a brilliant vision for color and style, and a willingness to help the design-deprived among us! If you have a Design Dilemma, write to Dr. Margi at DesigningDr@gmail.com and ask your question. Include pictures and details, and Dr. Margi will respond to your Design Dilemma with a perfect solution!

                                                                                      

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