I first came into contact with Lai-kwun back in March of last year. Diagnosed with terminal breast cancer, she was staying in a public hospital when the latest pandemic wave began. Alone and unable to see her family, Lai-kwun pleaded with her daughter, Ka-ying, to be discharged.When I received the call from Ka-ying, I immediately arranged
for a nurse consultation with Lai-kwun. Given her serious condition, she was promptly admitted to Jockey Club Home for Hospice on the same day. While the doctor was prescribing medications to relieve Lai-kwun's pain, I spoke with Ka-ying to better understand her mother's situation. Ka-ying explained that for over ten years, her mother's battle with cancer had exhausted her both physically and financially. However, Ka-ying added that no matter how difficult the road ahead might be, her mother would always have the loving support of the entire family.
To help lessen Lai-kwun's financial burden, our clinical social worker, Tina Yu, helped her apply for care subsidy. Ever prepared, Lai-kwun already had an advance directive to refuse life support in the case of a coma, a decision that her family respected and accepted. Shortly after her admission, Lai-kwun passed away peacefully surrounded by her family as was her wish. Some time later, I received a handwritten appreciation card from Ka-ying and her family. For us healthcare professionals, a simple thank you is the greatest encouragement of all.
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| Elane Siu, Home Care, Advanced Practive Nurse |
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