176. Hospice Care

Millie's sister Arlene had been battling breast cancer five years. Then the doctor gave Arlene some news. The cancer had spread to her brain there was no treatment that would cure her. "'ll keep taking care of you," Millie told her . Millie and Arlene were both in their 50s, Millie was 5 years older than Arlene. Arlene always be Millie's little sister. Throughout Arlene's illness, took care of things. Millie went with Arlene all of her appointments. Millie went to all Arlene's chemotherapy and radiation treatments. When Arlene lost hair because of the chemo, Millie helped Arlene a natural looking wig. Arlene was appreciative, but felt bad. Millie had a family of her to take care of, and yet she spent of her time taking care of Arlene.

Arlene Millie she wanted to be put in a . Millie did not know what that was. Arlene's gave the sisters some brochures. The brochures explained hospice care would try to make Arlene as as possible by providing pain management. They also on the emotional health of patients and their by providing counseling. Millie was reluctant to place in hospice. Millie felt like she was abandoning baby sister. Arlene insisted though.

"It's about time else wait on me hand and foot," Arlene . Millie went with Arlene to check into the . Not only did the staff take care of , they also had activities for Millie, a member the family. The staff told Millie that she even spend the night here when she wanted. asked Arlene what some of her favorite foods so their chef could make what she liked. felt comfortable in the hospice.