In honor of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month this November we would like to share a story from David and Linda Abbott of Montpelier. Linda, a Masters prepared nurse who once worked for CVHHH, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2012. She died while receiving Hospice Care from CVHHH earlier this year. We spoke with David, now retired after a career in higher education administration, about his, and Linda’s, experience with Hospice. Here is their story.
“I met Linda in 1961 on a trip to Montreal. A friend and I were driving through North Hero when I saw Linda waiting to cross Route 2 carrying a basket of laundry. She was working that summer as a chambermaid at what is now the North Hero House. When I saw her, I knew that we had to meet. On our return from Montreal my friend and I stayed overnight at the North Hero House. As soon as I talked with Linda, I knew that she was the one. Last June, after 52 years of marriage, Linda died from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. She died in my arms, at home, pain and drug free, while our daughter, Sarah, held her hand.
I have heard that Alzheimer’s, in some cases, makes you more of who you are. This was true of Linda. Ultimately, the disease conquered her body, but never her spirit. Throughout her battle with Alzheimer’s Linda remained positive and loving, encouraging me by example to remain the same.
Linda utilized the full array of CVHHH services. Over time, she benefitted from the care of a Registered Nurse, a Physical Therapist, an Occupational Therapist, a Speech Therapist, a social worker, and Hospice Care. Each appointment was scheduled seamlessly as the need arose. As Linda’s primary care partner, I am particularly grateful for the support of her Personal Care Attendants, Carol and Beth. They provided backup for me when I needed respite. They were unfailingly kind, patient and competent, quickly earning my trust as they assumed responsibility for caring for Linda and my home in my absence.
CVHHH made it possible for me to keep my promise to Linda that she would remain in her home, well tended, with me as her primary care partner throughout the course of her decline. If there is such a thing as a good death, then Linda had it”.
To learn more about Hospice Care at home, please visit the Hospice section of our website here.