As a pastor for many years I’ve come to understand the importance of teaching before promulgating and I blew that in explaining hospice in my last journal update.  After a few days it became evident to me that the word “hospice” has a different connotation in everyone’s head. 

Both my caring bridge note and the diocesan announcement, used the phrase that I was going “into hospice”.  There are different levels of hospice care.  I’m receiving “home hospice care” tomorrow.  I’m not moving into a “transitions hospice care” facility.  

Tomorrow they will perform a house assessment and will make suggestions: like a hospitable table for my bed, a shower bench etc.  they will also teach my family how to administer controlled substances.  This is when the body is shutting down.  So far, I don’t see that, and I keep fighting and praying for a cure.  Please keep praying and know that I am praying for you.  Do not be saddened but enjoy and find hope in what God is doing. I hope this explanation of the word hospice provides comfort and understanding.  I love you,  Fr. Tighe