Maroc - MYMUSKOKANOW.COM - A La Une - 12/Jul 19:40

Hospice Muskoka and University of Toronto studying ‘revolutionary’ palliative care model

Hospice Muskoka's nurse practitioner-led palliative care model will be studied by the University of Toronto.  A "celebration of gratitude" was held Thursday at the Port Carling Community Centre for the many people who have supported Andy's House, a palliative care home in Port Carling, before it opened in Oct. 2020 and the many others who have contributed since it has been in operation.  Donna Kearney, executive director of Hospice Muskoka, said they have brought on three full-time nurse practitioners to work at Andy's House. She explained how the model has worked well in Muskoka, but it can be difficult for hospices in rural parts of Ontario to attract a nurse practitioner, which forces some people who may have benefited from the program to be sent to the hospital. Kearney added it's hard for smaller areas to attract practitioners because they're not funded through the Ontario Health and Insurance Plan, but through donations.  The nurse practitioners are part of the Andy's House at Home project, which Kearney outlined allows people to die at home, if they're able to, or refers them to Andy's House.  In explaining how the model works, Kearney shared the story of Michael, who lived at Andy's House for five months after being transferred from a hospital in Toronto and was identified as "a homeless person."  "We learned he was much more than a homeless person," she said.  She shared how he was a paratrooper with the Canadian Armed Forces. "His missions saw him be dropped into war zones and complete a specific task before being pulled out," detailed Kearney.  On top of that, Michael's family tree includes Maj.-Gen. Sir Isaac Brock, who fought in the War of 1812 and during his time in Port Carling, Kearney said they learned his daughter was a high-ranking member of the Royal Canadian Navy.  "Michael's military experience caused him to suffer severe [post-traumatic stress disorder] from which he didn't seek treatment," said Kearney. "It caused him to lose his family, his career, his purpose in life. He existed on the streets of Toronto for a decade."  However, Kearney added they were able to reconnect Michael with his daughter, sister, and ex-wife.  "One day, after a visit with his daughter, Michael walked back to his bedroom, got tucked into bed, went to sleep, and never woke up again," said Kearney. "He died knowing that his family loved him and that his life was valuable."  Kearney shared two other stories about people who were cared for and died at Andy's House, rather than at a hospital. She said they have cared for over 500 people since they opened.  "Having this model, we're validating that it's an appropriate model for when there are no other options for palliative care," says Kearney. "It's something that's new and revolutionary. It could bring hospice care to northern and rural people. We all deserve hospice care."  With support from the District of Muskoka, Kearney said they're looking for space in Bracebridge to create a satellite office. It wouldn’t have any beds, but it would allow them to offer some programming locally, rather than having people drive to Port Carling.  She adds they have secured a space in Gravenhurst at 5 Pineridge Gate thanks to an agreement with the Cottage Country Family Health Team (CCFMT).  The celebration saw Andy's father Bob Potts joined on-stage by Matt Hanes to thank everyone for their support.  Hanes was riding alongside Andy in July 2005 as the officers were driving to a late-night call in Bala. They struck a moose while driving along Muskoka Rd. 169 near Walkers Point Rd. just after 2 a.m. with the impact killing Andy and leaving Hanes with serious injuries.  "I simply don't have enough words to express our gratitude and appreciation for your support other than thank you," said Potts.  He and Hanes presented the new donor recognition wall that has been installed at Andy's House to honour those who donated to Hospice Muskoka prior to the palliative care home opening in Oct. 2020. Potts said another digital wall has been installed which will recognize the ongoing support Hospice Muskoka receives.  "Thank you all for helping us realize our dream of creating this lasting legacy in honour of Andy," said Potts. "A son, a brother, a friend, and co-worker who believed in supporting those in need." The post Hospice Muskoka and University of Toronto studying ‘revolutionary’ palliative care model appeared first on My Muskoka Now.