Thankful for the caring staff (and the ducks) at Blue Water Hospice Home

Barb Hanneke’s husband, David, spent his last days under the care of Blue Water Hospice. She is extremely thankful for the services provided and the caring staff. She wanted to share their story so others can recognize when help is needed and seek that specialized care from professionals such as those of VNA & Blue Water Hospice. This is Barb’s story…

David and I lived on a 43-acre farm in Kimball Township. He was always very active. In 2019, he was diagnosed with dementia. Once we noticed the symptoms, things dramatically changed as far as what he could do.

Two years into the diagnosis, he started choking. After a series of tests, we found that in addition to dementia, he had esophageal cancer. We went through chemo and other treatments, but eventually, the disease progressed. David required feeding tubes. This was difficult because he loved good food, and I loved to cook for him – it was devastating. However, we found ways to allow him to experience flavor even though he could not swallow food.

Our friend Jim had gone through hospice. We visited him and knew the beauty of the Blue Water Hospice Home, as well as the wonderful care he had there. I knew that David’s diagnosis was life-limiting and eventually we would need to seek hospice care. When that time came I remembered the care Jim received from Blue Water Hospice, I wanted that for David.

We started discussions with the hospice representative, even visiting with Pastor Nate, well before David went into hospice. This made the transition much easier for David, as well as for myself and our family. After a time, David was eligible for hospice care since the disease had progressed to the point that I could not care for all of his needs at home.

David loved it at the Blue Water Hospice Home. Staff would take him to the big window in the center of the home so he could watch his ducks – we called it his Duck Time. The staff were so good to him there. They were good to me too. Having him under their care meant I did not have worry about meeting all of his needs, we could just spend time together – quality time. Unfortunately, David passed away a little over a week after moving into the home. I wish we would have gotten him there sooner. I want to tell others, get your loved one into the Hospice Home – your time spent together will change completely – let the staff take care of the needs, you enjoy the time together.

A few months later, we were invited to the Blue Water Hospice Memorial Service. It was a very sweet service. My daughter loved it. She loved that there were pictures of the loved ones. We saw several of the staff that made David’s stay so special. We are forever grateful to them.

I have such appreciation for what hospice is and for the special people that provide that care.