Comfort and dignity: A closer look at hospice care

Originally featured in Democrat & Chronicle, June 12th 2025

 

Facing the end of a loved one’s life can feel overwhelming. The emotional weight, difficult choices and uncertainty about what lies ahead create one of the most challenging times a family can experience. That’s where hospice care teams can step in, offering not just medical expertise but comfort, dignity and a sense of peace when it’s needed most.

Hospice care can be provided in a dedicated setting like the Leo Center for Caring, part of St. Ann’s Community. There, staff are focused on helping patients spend their final days with comfort and meaning. The goal is not to cure, but to care — managing pain, relieving symptoms and supporting quality of life throughout the process. Hospice also supports family members, guiding them through difficult conversations and moments of grief, while helping them stay connected to their loved one in deeply personal ways.

While hospice is end-of-life care, it does not necessarily mean the person will pass right away. Doctors typically recommend hospice care when a patient has six months or less to live and is no longer responding to curative treatments. Many patients live longer, and what matters most is the quality of time, not the quantity.

“Each person’s journey at the end of life is different,” said Jessica Kelly, a licensed practical nurse at the Leo Center. “We tailor our care to meet those unique needs — whether that’s managing pain, supporting emotional well-being or helping families share meaningful moments together.”

Kelly and the care team go beyond clinical care. Sometimes that means preparing meals for family members who stay overnight or fulfilling requests like bringing a patient’s beloved greyhounds in for a final visit. “Whatever someone would want if they were in their own home, that’s what we work to provide,” she said.

Marguerite Janto, nurse manager at the Leo Center, noted that the team often reflects on how they’d want their own loved ones treated in the same situation. “We think about our own families and future generations. That’s what inspires us to show up with compassion and presence, every single day,” she said.

The physical environment at the Leo Center also helps families feel at ease. Every patient stays in a private room, with space for family and overnight guests. Common areas include a fully stocked kitchen, comfortable lounges and even an outdoor patio for fresh air and reflection.

Expert care is available around the clock. Hospice nurses are highly trained in pain management and symptom control, while certified nursing assistants provide daily hands-on support. The broader care team includes physicians, social workers, dietitians and pastoral care professionals, all working together to meet the needs of both patients and family.

The work is deeply personal for those who do it.

“We’ve formed lasting connections with many of the families we’ve served,” Kelly said. “Hearing someone say, ‘You felt like family to us’ — that’s the highest compliment we can receive. It means we did more than provide care. We provided comfort, dignity and love.”